SINGAPORE AIRLINES WELCOMES ACCC DRAFT APPROVAL OF ALLIANCE WITH VIRGIN AUSTRALIA

Singapore Airlines today welcomed the ACCC's draft approval of its proposed alliance with Virgin Australia. Regulatory approval will enable Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia to build an integrated alliance, an expanded network and seamless service offerings for travellers in Australia.

The alliance will connect Singapore Airlines' global network with Virgin Australia's wide range of Australian and Pacific destinations, offering customers seamless connections, convenient flight schedules, access to more airport lounges and greater opportunities to earn and redeem frequent flyer miles.

Singapore Airlines Regional Vice-President South West Pacific Subhas Menon said: "We are pleased with the ACCC's draft approval. We pride ourselves on setting the benchmark for service excellence, product innovation and network connectivity in line with our customers' needs and our partnership with Virgin Australia will enable us to deliver a best-in-class travel experience across Australia. Today's announcement will be welcome news to leisure and corporate travellers alike who will benefit from the more attractive and competitive travel options this alliance will provide."

Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia lodged an application with the ACCC in June under which the airlines propose to:

– Codeshare on each other's international and domestic flights;

– Offer reciprocal frequent flyer programme benefits and lounge access;

– Coordinate schedules between Singapore and Australia and beyond to provide seamless connections; and

– Engage in joint sales, marketing and distribution activities.

The proposed alliance is subject to regulatory approvals in Australia and Singapore.