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Virgin Australia is planning to resume limited Doha services from mid-June as Qatar Airways continues to restore flights.
Starting 15 June, VA1-2 and VA7-8 flights from Sydney and Melbourne to Doha will resume following their earlier cancellation, though other services will remain cancelled for another three months. Virgin has said it is offering “flexibility” for guests who may wish to change travel plans.
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The Doha services, operated by Qatar Airways 777-300ERs, normally fly 28 times per week and were intended as a way for Virgin to test the waters for a return to long-haul travel.
“Virgin Australia services between Brisbane and Perth and Doha (VA15-16 and VA21-22), operated by Qatar Airways, are cancelled up to and including 15 September 2026,” a Virgin spokesperson said.
“Impacted guests are being contacted directly and reaccommodated on alternative services or offered a travel credit or refund. Guests planning to travel to, or transit through, the region should check the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website for the latest travel advice.
“Guests with bookings made before 30 April 2026 for departures up to 14 September 2026 can change their flights to another travel date before 31 October 2026 with the change fee waived (fare difference may apply).
“Guests may also choose to cancel their booking and retain the value of their ticket as a travel credit for use before 31 March 2027.”
Qatar Airways itself is currently operating Australia services only to Sydney, Melbourne and Perth five times per week, moving back to daily on 1 May, with Brisbane to recommence four flights per week on 16 May, with daily services to resume on 16 June.
The Gulf carrier said in a statement on 16 April that its updated schedule will be valid until 15 September as it continues to restore global connectivity.
“Passengers with confirmed bookings on a flight in the new schedule will be notified directly with updated flight information. Qatar Airways recommends checking its website or app regularly and ensuring that contact details are kept up to date,” the airline said.
“Passengers are kindly reminded not to proceed to their departure airport unless they hold a valid, confirmed ticket for travel.
“Please note: Flight schedules are subject to change or cancellation owing to operational, regulatory, safety, or other circumstances beyond our control.”
Virgin last month suspended the second tranche of its crew secondment program with Qatar Airways due to the Iran crisis. Around 20 pilots and 20 cabin staff were sent to Qatar last year for the secondments, which accompany Virgin’s wet-lease deal.
Melbourne in December became the final major Australian gateway to receive Virgin’s Doha services, following Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth in June last year.
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