Virgin reveals new Covid-19 vaccine rules

The airline will introduce a new vaccine policy and offer millions of Velocity Points and business-class flights for those who have had the jab. VOTE IN OUR POLL

Virgin Australia is set to require its frontline employees receive a Covid-19 vaccination within months, in a move the company says will protect its workforce and customers.

The Queensland-based airline will follow Qantas and ask its frontline team members to be vaccinated by November 15 and all office-based workers by March 31.

Virgin Australia says it will negotiate with unions and employees before deciding a final policy next month, and those with medical issues will be managed on a case-by-case basis.

Virgin Australia CEO Jayne Hrdlicka – who caused controversy in May when she said borders should be reopened despite the fact some people may die – said vaccination was the only solution to dragging Australia out of its crippling Covid-19 situation.

“It is clear that vaccination is the only way back to normal freedom of movement and the richness in life that comes from spending meaningful, in person time with family, friends and colleagues,” she said.

Virgin CEO Jayne Hrdlicka says the airline will consult with unions and staff about mandating the vaccination for employees.

“The majority of our team at Virgin Australia are already vaccinated, and we will be listening to our team members to ensure we find the best fit policy for our organisation.”

Ms Hrdlicka said the airline would start an internal education campaign to inform staff of plans.

“We trust medical experts, their advice and the evidence that shows that vaccines save lives and reduce hospitalisation rates,” she said.

The airline will also launch separate competitions for customers and staff this week, with millions of Velocity Frequent Flyer Points and dozens of free business-class flights up for grabs for people who get vaccinated.

A recent survey of Virgin Australia’s frontline workers found over three-quarters  of the frontline workforce had received at least one dose of a Covid-19 vaccine, with another 9 per cent registered for vaccination.

Earlier this month Qantas became Australia’s biggest company to mandate the Covid-19 vaccine, ordering frontline workers to get the jab before November 15 or leave the aviation industry.