Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways have announced plans to strengthen their strategic partnership by collaborating on a range of sustainability initiatives focused on areas such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), Low Carbon Aviation Fuel (LCAF), environmental management, sustainable procurement and aviation workforce development.

“It allows Virgin Australia  to harness the scale and expertise of the world’s best airline to help tackle a range of sustainability challenges – from the adoption of SAF-related solutions to customer solutions, to workforce development,” said Christian Bennett, chief corporate affairs & sustainability officer, Virgin Australia.

A key area of focus for the partnership is the advancement of SAF and LCAF in Australia.

The airlines will explore opportunities to collaborate on relevant projects, including the certification, production, and commercial uptake of these sustainable fuels.

Additionally, the partnership will investigate sustainability-related customer solutions to meet the growing demand for more environmentally friendly travel options.

This announcement comes as Qatar Airways Group prepares to acquire a minority 25% equity stake in Virgin Australia, subject to Australian Government approval. The existing strategic partnership between the two airlines, which has expanded their networks, lounge offerings, and loyalty programs, recently celebrated its second anniversary.

“This MoU not only further strengthens the strategic partnership between Qatar Airways Group and Virgin Australia, but also cements the shared commitment towards achieving our common objectives in the area of sustainability,” said Fathi Atti, senior vice president of aeropolitical & corporate affairs, Qatar Airways Group.