SIA and Virgin Australia to offer reciprocal lounge access

SIA’s KrisFlyer Elite Gold and PPS Club members can now access Virgin Australia’s six domestic lounges.

According to a release, Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia launched the first phase of their alliance, commencing an initial interline agreement and offering reciprocal lounge access to eligible customers.

Singapore Airlines customers are able to connect to a range of Australian destinations served by Virgin Australia on one ticket, with terminal transfers, in-flight entertainment and meals included.

Reciprocal lounge access for eligible Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia customers is also being offered from August 1. Singapore Airlines’ KrisFlyer Elite Gold and PPS Club members will have access to Virgin Australia’s six domestic lounges when travelling on Virgin Australia flights. Virgin Australia’s Velocity Gold members will also have access to Singapore Airlines-operated lounges in 14 cities when travelling with Singapore Airlines.

Virgin Australia Group Executive Ms Merren McArthur said the alliance would also be positive for tourism in Australia.

"Today’s interline agreement will make it easier for Singapore Airlines’ customers from all over the world to travel through to a range of domestic and regional destinations around Australia. Should our proposed alliance receive regulatory approval, we will expand our cooperation to better promote these Australian destinations to a whole range of additional cities throughout Asia.

“By working closely with Singapore Airlines, we will be able to offer a deep and integrated alliance that ultimately benefits the travelling public. Guests will enjoy an expanded network of destinations, seamless connections, a more convenient flight schedule and more opportunities to earn frequent flyer points and access lounges,” Ms McArthur added.

Singapore Airlines and Virgin Australia announced plans in June for a wide-ranging partnership under which the airlines propose to:
• Codeshare on each other’s international and domestic flights;
• Offer reciprocal frequent flyer programme benefits and lounge access;
• Co-ordinate schedules between Singapore and Australia and beyond to provide seamless connections; and
• Engage in joint sales, marketing and distribution activities.

Subject to regulatory approvals, customers should be able to experience the full benefits of the alliance from late this year.