Business Class Introduction
Good morning from Melbourne early on. Kevin here from The Flip Flop Traveler; today I will be flying Virgin Australia Business Class from Melbourne to Brisbane. Originally, I had intended to run a three-part mini-series comparing Virgin Australia, Qantas, and REX, but certain unanticipated events will cause this to be a stand-alone evaluation instead. Although Qantas degraded me and REX sadly closed, this evaluation has plenty to offer, particularly about Australia's aviation industry.
The Australian Aviation Market
Change is much needed in the Australian aviation sector. Should things stay as they are, travelers will have fewer options and pay more. Although Virgin Australia is one of the few choices left to the Qantas-dominated market right now, things are delicate. Prices will probably keep rising in the absence of competition. The market has to change if else travelers will have less choices.
Melbourne Airport Check-in and Lounge Experience
With a few international routes to Bali, Fiji, and Queenstown, Virgin Australia runs out of Terminal 3 at Melbourne Airport mostly for local flights. Surprisingly lacking ID checks, the fully automated check-in process for domestic flights gives off a faint "Japanese domestic flying" impression.
Melbourne Airport's lounge was very outstanding. Although the cuisine was simple, the coffee was really good, and the lounge itself was large enough to accommodate people ready to venture outside the busy entrance.
Virgin Australia's history
Virgin Australia started as Virgin Blue in 2000 and soon grew to be a significant force in the home market following Ansett Australia's 2001 fall-off. They debuted V Australia in 2008, a long-haul service mostly running flights to the United States. Following rebranding in 2011, Virgin Australia changed from a low-cost airline to a more mid-market carrier. COVID-19 did unfortunately severely affect the airline, leading to bankruptcy declaration. Bain Capital bought the airline finally, and Virgin Australia was turned into a hybrid airline with less of an international presence.
Virgin Australia's Impact from COVID-19
Airlines suffered greatly as the Australian government restricted both domestic and international borders during the epidemic. Like others, Virgin Australia looked for financial help. While Qantas got $2.7 billion in relief, they asked for a rescue of $1.4 billion and were turned down. Virgin filed for bankruptcy as a result, and the airline has been negotiating difficult circumstances ever since.
Virgin Australia versus Qantas
Long ruling the Australian aviation scene is Qantas. Qantas' success stems from its membership in a worldwide alliance, which gives travelers worldwide privileges and connectivity absent from Virgin Australia. Notwithstanding this, Virgin has hope for a comeback, particularly given speculation that Qatar Airways would buy a 20% share in the airline, therefore perhaps forcing Virgin into an international alliance.
Boarding the 737-800 Virgin Australia
Getting on the Virgin Australia 737-800 went naturally. Though cozy, the aircraft's inside was basic. Like domestic first class in the United States, business class comprised two rows with eight seats overall. I was fortunate enough to have additional room by an empty seat right next to me.
Comfort, service, and meals—onboard experience
The legroom was more than sufficient; deep seats provided great thigh support. There were non-alcoholic pre-departure beverages and generally nice service. Along with a slice of banana bread, I delighted in a cheese bagel with egg salad and chorizo during the journey. Although the dish was not exactly what I had in mind, it was good and filling.
Though modest, the restrooms were spotless, and the purser's meticulousness was astounding. To create a really good experience, the crew made many drink rounds and interacted with every business class passenger.
Future of Aviation Market in Australia
Virgin Australia is one of the few choices to Qantas in the Australian aviation scene even with Bonza and REX airlines gone. Maintaining competitiveness of the airline depends on its future. The possible participation of Qatar Airways might be a turning moment enabling Virgin to challenge the market supremacy of Qantas.
Final Thoughts and Future Review Notes
All things considered, Virgin Australia presents a strong business class offering even in a competitive environment. For domestic travel, they are a reasonable choice because of their polite service, cozy chairs, and general experience. But the performance of carriers like Virgin will determine the direction of Australian aviation. Watch for my forthcoming Qantas reviews, when I will explore more the difficulties they experience and how they differ from Virgin.
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