Press release
United Airlines and Virgin Australia Group Announce New Partnership
Beginning early 2022, United customers can access convenient one-stop connections to Australia's top destinations while enjoying the benefits of MileagePlus
About this update from United Airlines Holdings, Inc.
[{"type":"text","content":"Beginning early 2022, United customers can access convenient one-stop connections to Australia's top destinations while enjoying the benefits of MileagePlus membership and more\n\n\nCHICAGO, Dec. 13, 2021 /PRNewswire/ -- United and Virgin Australia Group announced today a new partnership that will enhance the travel experience between Australia and the Americas. This partnership will add more benefits for both MileagePlus and Velocity Frequent Flyer members as well as access to more one-stop connections to cities across the United States, Australia, Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America. The agreement, which is subject to government approval, is set to roll out starting in early 2022.\n\n \n \n \n \n \n \n\n \nAustralia has always been a key part of United's network as demonstrated by United being the only carrier to maintain passenger service between the U.S. and Australia throughout the pandemic. In addition, United offers more flights to Australia than any other U.S. carrier and now extends its presence by adding Virgin Australia Group's comprehensive network.\n\"The United States and Australia share a special bond and I'm especially proud that United was the only airline to maintain a vital link between these two countries throughout the pandemic,\" said United CEO Scott Kirby. \"Looking ahead, Virgin Australia is the perfect partner for United. Our partnership provides considerable commercial value for both airlines and a shared commitment to offer the best travel experience for our customers.\"\nUnited currently offers daily direct flights from San Francisco and Los Angeles to Sydney, while other services including flights from Houston and direct services to Melbourne are expected to resume later in 2022. Under this new partnership, United's customers will now have access to top Australian destinations including Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide.\nIn addition to the ability to redeem and earn points/miles, eligible premier MileagePlus and Velocity members will also receive the following benefits when flying on United and Virgin Australia worldwide:\nPriority check-in Priority boarding Priority baggage delivery and additional baggage check allowance Priority security clearance Lounge accessThe partnership will also triple Virgin Australia's reach into the U.S., with customers accessing United's vast domestic and international...