Pilotcenter.net News has reported that Etihad Airways could be facing some major changes in its codeshare partnerships, as Qatar Airways looks to acquire a 25% minority stake in Virgin Australia. If the proposal is approved, it could mean the end of Etihad's exclusive Australian codeshare agreement.

In a joint application to the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), it was revealed that Qatar Airways aims to become Virgin Australia’s sole interline, codeshare, and loyalty partner in the Middle East or Türkiye. This would result in Virgin Australia no longer codesharing on international flights with other airlines in the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.

Conversely, Virgin Australia would become Qatar Airways’ exclusive partner in Australia, indicating a significant shift in alliances for both airlines. However, the proposal does allow Qatar Airways to maintain its relationship with Qantas within the Oneworld alliance framework.

The potential deal could have far-reaching implications for long-haul travel in Australia, as many passengers might have chosen to fly with Etihad through their partnership with Virgin Australia. The proposed services would include daily flights between Australian cities and Doha utilizing aircraft wet-leased from Qatar Airways, likely Boeing 777-300ERs.

According to Analytic Flying's analysis, the proposed agreement is set to span a five-year period from June 2025 onwards. This development signals a significant reshuffling of partnerships and alliances in the airline industry, impacting travel options and competition in the Australian market.