Australia's airline industry is buzzing with excitement as Virgin Australia launches impressive Boxing Day sales, targeting domestic travelers and international adventurers alike. The sale, which began on Boxing Day, has seen prices slashed significantly, with some domestic flights starting as low as $49. Meanwhile, international offerings through Virgin's new codeshare partnership with Qatar Airways promises exhilarating options for future travelers.
With this Boxing Day sale, Virgin Australia is setting the stage for what could be the best travel deals of the year. From now until December 29, 2024, travelers can grab some of the most competitive fares the airline has offered, aimed at spicing up their travel plans for 2025. The sale focuses on major domestic destinations, including the Gold Coast, Whitsundays, and Hamilton Island, as well as exciting international spots like Bali, Queenstown, and Fiji.
According to Virgin Australia Executive Libby Minogue, the holiday period is synonymous with great travel deals. "Boxing Day is synonymous with deals - and for Virgin Australia, it’s about giving our customers the freedom to explore more of Australia and beyond for less. With unbelievably low fares and the opportunity to earn Velocity Points, it’s the perfect time to lock in your next escape," she said.
The specific details of the sale reveal astonishingly low prices, starting from $49 for flights from Sydney to Ballina (Byron Bay). International flights to Bali are priced at around $609 from Sydney or $559 from Melbourne, creating incredible options for those planning their summer vacations. New Zealand and Hobart are also included as part of this unbeatable offer.
The major airline's decision to cut prices this holiday season aligns with its recent revitalization strategy following the COVID-19 pandemic. After being largely absent from the international market for over four years, Virgin Australia has partnered with Qatar Airways, hoping to create greater competition and value for travelers. Future flights are scheduled to commence from June 2025, connecting Australians from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha with plans to expand to other key international destinations.
“The partnership between Qatar and Virgin Australia is going to bring much-needed competition, especially flying to Europe,” said Virgin CEO Jayne Hrdlicka. This collaboration could lead to lower fares and enhanced choices for consumers, something particularly welcome after the disruptive years of the pandemic.
Virgin's codeshare service with Qatar Airways will feature flights on the Boeing 777, known for its superior Q Suite Business Class—a significant draw for luxury travelers. Early bird tickets to must-see destinations include Business Class options priced at $7,679 for Perth to Paris return, $9,351 for Sydney to London, and $9,409 for Brisbane to Rome. With these competitive prices and the potential for bonus Velocity Points, travelers are encouraged to book fast to secure the best prices.
The sale also coincides with Qantas slashing their ticket prices, heating up the competition between Australia's major airlines. This latest round of discounts reflects wider trends within the airline industry, prompting companies to provide greater incentives to attract travelers eager for international travel options.
“Through this partnership, Virgin Australia becomes stronger, improving our ability to compete domestically—which is great news for Virgin Australia, our people, and consumers,” Hrdlicka added, referring to the upcoming service changes and the enhanced layer of competition this partnership invites.
Travelers should act quickly, as Virgin Australia aims to keep their sales competitive, with limited quantities available before regular pricing returns. Those interested can start booking their tickets on the Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways websites directly to secure their preferred travel options before they sell out.
This Boxing Day sale not only boosts excitement among consumers but also has the potential to reshape travel plans across the continent and beyond, as airlines refine their offerings and strategies post-pandemic. With enticing deals now available from Virgin Australia, travelers have the chance to make their dream trips become reality both domestically and internationally.
