Interim approval for Etihad-Virgin Blue alliance
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The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has granted interim approval to the proposed alliance between Etihad Airways and Aussie low-cost carrier Virgin Blue.
“In granting interim authorisation the ACCC has taken into account the fact that Virgin Blue and Etihad currently do not operate any competing services, as well as the lead time required to market and sell tickets before the commencement of long-haul services,” said ACCC Chairman Graeme Samuel.
He said the ACCC was aware that if final authorisation was not given, customers would be impacted.
“However, Virgin Blue and Etihad have put in place route protection plans to manage the travel arrangements of any affected passenger,” Samuel added.
The ACCC’s decision has been made despite objections by Australian flag carrier Qantas, which has requested that the commission deny Virgin and Etihad’s request for fast approval.
Etihad can now start promoting its alliance to travellers.
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