VIRGIN BLUE APPLAUDS ACCC COMPETITION POLICY REVIEW

Virgin Blue today welcomed the ACCC's announcement to review anti-competitive conduct in the aviation industry.

Virgin Blue Chief Executive Officer, Brett Godfrey said, "It is critical for the future of low fares and competition in Australia that the ACCC provide clear guidance in defining anti-competitive conduct."

The airline also called on the Federal Government to support the ACCC by giving it the necessary powers to take quick and effective action to stop such conduct.

"Discount fare dumping and predatory capacity expansion designed to stop low-fare competition requires a quick and effective response. Regulators have these powers in the United States and Canada and Australian consumers should expect the same.” Brett Godfrey continued.

Virgin Blue also announced today that it has settled its judicial review proceedings with the ACCC.

Brett Godfrey concluded by noting “We clearly had concerns with the Qantas/Impulse deal. We believe that the ACCC understands those concerns and in light of the dramatic changes in the industry, including the demise of Ansett, Virgin Blue is looking forward to working with the Commission and the Federal Government to develop a structure for long term sustainable airline competition.”

Virgin Blue, Australia’s only true low fare airline, will be servicing every state and territory by Christmas, with its fleet of brand new Next Generation Boeing 737 aircraft.