‘There’s no such thing as a free lunch’—or is there? One airline is proving that old saying wrong by offering travellers a surprising perk that could make airport layovers a little more bearable. If you’ve ever found yourself stuck at an airport with overpriced food options, this deal might just be a game-changer.
While travelling can sometimes be a taxing experience, Virgin Australia is offering a delectable new offer to sweeten the journey for Australian tourists.
Imagine yourself on a long-haul flight, stomach rumbling, when you remember that a $33 lunch voucher awaits you at your layover in an international airport.
This isn’t just a daydream; it’s the latest perk for Velocity Frequent Flyer members flying new routes from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth to Doha.
The offer is a mouthwatering prospect: a free voucher to dine at any 50-plus restaurants and cafes within Qatar’s Hamad International Airport. Whether you’re craving the casual flair of a Gordon Ramsay pizza or the comforting crunch of KFC, this voucher has you covered.
Velocity Frequent Flyer chief executive Nick Rohrlach expressed his excitement about giving Australian travellers a taste of what he described as a ‘one-of-a-kind airport’, complete with an indoor garden, unique art installations, and a wide variety of dining options.
To take advantage of this culinary treat, travellers must add their Velocity number to their booking before check-in.
The voucher, valued at US$20 (approximately A$33), can be redeemed by presenting your boarding pass at the point of sale. If your appetite leads you to spend more than the voucher’s value, you can quickly pay the difference with cash or a card.
The benefits of being a Velocity member don’t stop at satisfying your hunger. The program is designed to make flying with Virgin Australia even more rewarding, offering perks such as business upgrades, advanced seat selection, and lounge access.
The move will allow frequent flyers to enjoy world-class eats in the award-winning airport. Image source: Photo by Pascal Borener from Pexels
Rohrlach highlighted the program’s commitment to providing ‘great rewards,’ including more upgrade options and a better overall travel experience.
For those looking to indulge in a bit of luxury, upgrades to business class start from 99,000 Velocity points, depending on the ticket purchased.
Rohrlach touted this as an opportunity to experience what he called ‘the world’s best business class.’
Virgin and Qatar Airways’ partnership is part of an ‘integrated alliance’ that aims to expand flight options between Australia and the Middle East.
The collaboration involves Virgin using Qatar Airways’ aircraft and crew under a wet lease arrangement, a move that has received the green light from Australia’s competition watchdog, the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC).
This strategic alliance is expected to lower ticket prices, offer more flight choices, and offer customers loyalty benefits.
ACCC commissioner Anna Brakey has assured that the deal will not negatively impact the nation’s aviation workforce.
‘We consider it unlikely that Virgin Australia or any other Australian airline would commence operating Australia-Doha services on a stand-alone basis in the next five years even if the conduct was not authorised,’ she said.
Earlier this year, Qatar Airways Group acquired a 25 per cent minority stake in Virgin, further cementing the relationship between the two airlines. The new flights from Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth are set to begin in June, with Melbourne to Doha flights anticipated to start in December.
If you’re planning your next adventure, this could be the perfect opportunity for you to add a little extra flavour to your trip.
Not only will you get to explore a new destination, but you could also enjoy a delicious meal on the house at one of the world’s most luxurious airports.
We’d love to hear from you—have you ever taken advantage of a travel perk like this one? What was your experience? Share them with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below.
Also read: ‘More affordable’: Travellers expected to win from the Qatar-Virgin Australia deal
