oneworld

Qantas launched an early attack on the reborn Virgin Australia, days after Bain Capital assumed ownership, with an offer to lure members of its frequent-flyer program. Australia’s national carrier said Thursday it’s offering top-tier members of other airline loyalty plans the chance to fast-track their status when they switch to Qantas. The airline said it’s the first time it has made such a move. US private-equity firm Bain took control of Virgin on Nov. 17 in a A$3.5b deal to take the collapsed airline out of administration. Frequent-flyer programs have emerged as key cash-generating assets at airlines hammered by the pandemic. The offer from Qantas gives a glimpse of the potential battle to come among airlines worldwide over frequent flyers. Some loyalty members are up for grabs because carriers are emerging from the crisis at different paces, with networks and schedules that differ from the pre-coronavirus era. Qantas said eligible members of other programs can fast-track their status at Qantas by earning 100 credits in three months to qualify for so-called gold tier.<br/>

Qantas CE Alan Joyce has already visited Melbourne to hold talks with Victoria Premier Daniel Andrews regarding the possibility of shifting its headquarters to the city, according to reports. The state is seeking to woo the 5,000 positions currently based in Sydney and also protect the 1,000 roles located at the Collingwood home of subsidiary Jetstar. In September, the business announced it was mulling shifting all its bases to one city, as part of a review into its office space caused by downsizing its workforce. The Sydney Morning Herald also claimed the pair spoke about how to increase flights in and out of the state while Joyce personally scouted out locations that could house a new HQ. Premier Andrews has spoken openly about his ambition to shift Qantas roles to Melbourne.<br/>