Tour operators have welcomed the launch of Virgin Atlantic's first ever route to Australia - which goes on sale next week - saying it will lead to lower prices. The airline starts a daily Heathrow-Sydney service via Hong Kong from December 7 with prices from as little as £717 plus taxes. Prices will be even lower in the new year.
Ebookers marketing director Colin Whaley said: "The announcement of the new Virgin route to Sydney can only mean better deals for travellers to one of the most popular destinations. The December launch will bring extra capacity over the Christmas and New Year period when availability is often very tight, but as always customers should book well ahead to secure seats at this time."
A spokesman for British Airways confirmed that it would "review [its] prices to keep them competitive within the marketplace". At the time of going to press British Airways quoted an economy fare of £1,059, departing December 7. Qantas' best deal for the same day was £886 plus tax.
The announcement was also welcomed by the Australian Tourist Commission, whose spokeswoman said: "The presence of Virgin in an increasingly competitive market is good news for UK holidaymakers planning trips to Australia. Over the peak season, flights out of the UK fill up quickly, and the additional capacity on the route will give passengers greater choice." This would mean "some excellent offers to the consumer", she added.
Tour operators confirmed that any savings made on air fares would be passed on to the customer, although they could not confirm new package prices. Australian specialist Austravel saying it was "delighted" at the "great value [the new flights offer] for the leisure traveller.
* Virgin Atlantic has also confirmed plans for new routes to Cuba and the Bahamas, starting next year. Gatwick-Havana will start twice-weekly from July 21, and Gatwick-Nassau weekly from July 18. There will also be additional services to Grenada, Tobago, Las Vegas and Orlando.
