Virgin Australia opens new flights to Qatar from Brisbane

Virgin Australia has announced a new flight path from Brisbane to Doha, opening up travel for Aussies hoping to explore the Middle East.

Aussies will be given the opportunity to fly directly from Brisbane to the sandy plains of the Persian Gulf thanks to a new travel route opened up by Virgin Australia.

Starting from Thursday, Virgin is launching flights from Brisbane to Doha’s Hamad International Airport in conjunction with Qatar airways.

Virgin Australia chief executive Dave Emerson said the new flights “mark the beginning of a new era” for the company and for international travel to Australia.

Virgin Australia chief executive Dave Emerson, with cabin crew, says the new route is another milestone for international travel from Australia. Picture: Supplied

“Through our partnership with Qatar Airways, we’re not just launching new routes – we’re opening the world to millions of Australians, delivering more choice, better value and a seamless global experience,” he said.

“This partnership strengthens Australia’s global connectivity while generating jobs, boosting tourism and injecting billions into the national economy.”

Hamad International Airport supports 48 airlines, and ushers millions of passengers through its terminals every month.

Queensland Tourism Minister Andrew Powell said the new flights to Hamad would position the Sunshine State as a new gateway between Australia and the rest of the world.

“These new flights mean more tourists enjoying everything Queensland has to offer, giving visitors from all over the world affordable ways to reach our communities, boosting business for Queensland tourism operators,” he said.

Virgin Australia has begun its new partnership with Qatar Airways to offer international travel. Picture: Supplied

About 2.65 million passengers are expected to be arriving in Doha from Australia annually by

this December, which Virgin says will increase “competitiveness in the market and (provide) ample choice for Aussie travellers wanting to visit Europe, Africa and the Middle East”.

Brisbane Airport chief executive Gert-Jan de Graaff welcomed the new flights.

“This marks the most significant increase in capacity between Queensland and Europe in the past two years, and we’re confident these new daily flights will boost tourism, strengthen international ties and support Queensland’s exporters,” he said.

“It’s fantastic news for the Brisbane-headquartered airline and even better news for travellers and Queensland’s tourism-driven industry.”

Fares are available now for purchase, with some discounts ranging up to 15 per cent for select travel dates between October 16 and March 31 next year.

Originally published as Virgin Australia opens new flights to Qatar from Brisbane