Qatar Airways, one of the largest airline groups in the world, is reportedly in talks to buy up to a 20 percent stake in Virgin Australia, according to the Australian Financial Review (AFR). The move could dramatically shake up the country’s aviation industry, as carriers fight for more market share against dominant airline Qantas. The potential deal comes as Virgin Australia, owned by US private equity firm Bain Capital, had aimed for an A$1 billion listing on the Australian Securities Exchange, but the plan was delayed. Qatar Airways has been looking to increase its presence in Australia, but its efforts to secure additional flying rights to the country were previously blocked by the Labor government.
Qatar Airways has already partnered with Virgin Airlines to improve connectivity and provide seamless journeys for its passengers. However, the potential acquisition of a stake in Virgin Australia could further strengthen Qatar Airways' position in the Australian market. The move by Qatar Airways to buy a 20 percent stake in Virgin Australia could herald a shake-up in the national aviation sector, experts say. A move by Qatar Airways to buy a 20 percent stake in Virgin Australia could herald a shake-up in the national aviation sector, experts say. He said Qatar Airways - recently named Skytrax airline of the year - was likely to be seeking a stake in Virgin Australia to compete with the Qantas-Emirates alliance.
Qatar Airways has shared a tumultuous relationship with Australia in the recent past. The airline's attempt to increase its air presence in the country was blocked by the Labor government. However, the potential acquisition of a stake in Virgin Australia could pave the way for Qatar Airways to expand its operations in the country. The deal, if successful, could also have implications for Virgin Australia's other partnerships, such as with Etihad and United.
However, both of those airlines could benefit from having a partner for connectivity in Australia, which they currently do. The announcement of Qatar Airways' plans regarding buying a stake in the airlines is expected by early next week. Details on the deal's specifics are currently limited, as representatives from both Qatar Airways and Virgin Australia's owner, Bain Capital, were unavailable for comment.