Virgin Australia reiterates case for SIA alliance

Virgin Australia chief John Borghetti has reiterated that the company has a strong case for its alliance with Singapore Airlines, which is yet to be approved by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission. Virgin Australia anticipates issuing a draft determination on the alliance in September or October, which is expected to be approved as rival Qantas Airways has written to the ACCC not opposing the alliance. Under the alliance, Virgin Australia and Singapore Airlines propose to codeshare on each other’s international and domestic flights, offer reciprocal frequent flyer program benefits and lounge access, co-ordinate schedules between Singapore and Australia, and