Virgin Australia and Qantas vie for seat allocation to Italy.

In a submission to the International Air Services Commission, Virgin Australia has claimed Qantas’ application for renewal of 600 seats on the Italy route  “have the potential to strengthen Qantas’ dominant position”.

Virgin Australia said that given Qantas’ proposed partner, Emirates, already has a strong presence on the Italy route, the public will not benefit from Qantas’ stronghold on the route.

The airline argued the introduction of services on the route by Virgin Australia as a new entrant will enhance competition.
Qantas’ application on 3 September was for renewal of capacity to code share with Cathay Pacific to Italy.