Editor’s view: Qantas-Qatar Airways flights decision must be reviewed

There must be a full and comprehensive review of the federal government’s decision to block more flights to Australia from Qatar, writes the editor.

There must be a full and comprehensive review of the federal government’s decision to block more flights to Australia from Qatar.

Labor national president Wayne Swan said as much on Friday, saying there should be an “appropriate review” – and for
him to concede as much speaks volumes.

It can be revealed now that Queensland stands to lose more than $100m a year because of the federal government’s senseless decision to block Qatar Airways from increasing its flights “in the national interest” and because it would “help keep Qantas profitable”.

Queensland stands to lose more than $100m a year because of the federal government’s senseless decision to block Qatar Airways from increasing its flights.

The tourism industry is rightly angry, after enduring a tough three years since Covid shut down the world, and travel ground to a halt.

And Australians keen to travel again are also rightly frustrated.

International airfares continue to be out of reach for many Aussies, and it’s a no-brainer that more competition would have helped.

The Queensland government’s decision to deploy a $200m aviation war chest to attract airlines to the Sunshine State stands in stark contrast to the federal move to block competition.

It resulted in 25 international airlines making agreements under the scheme – proving it was a smart move, and something the federal government could learn from.