April

6 April

The government announces it’s to supplement a selection of repatriation flights to London, Los Angeles, Hong Kong and Auckland, operated by Qantas and Virgin Australia. The news came after three of the major transport hubs facilitating trips, Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Singapore, all suspended transit.

Meanwhile, Virgin Australia ramps up its lobbying for a bailout by placing a full-page advert in Saturday’s Daily Telegraph warning of the dangers of a Qantas monopoly. In an apparent swipe at its biggest rival, the text states, “Our biggest competitors need a challenger to keep them honest and innovative. A monopoly won’t even work for them.” The Virgin Australia Group is seeking a $1.4 billion loan from the government to help it survive during the coronavirus crisis.