e-Travel Blackboard
2 Apr 2008
Singapore Airlines Regional Vice President South West Pacific, Paul Tan, acknowledged the launch of V Australia’s daily trans-pacific route from Sydney to Los Angeles.
“It is a step in the right direction for Australians who want cheaper airfares to and from the United States.
“Today’s announcement not only signifies that Qantas’ near-monopoly on the trans-Pacific route is coming to an end, but also represents progress with the Australian Government’s commitment to consider further liberalization of the route.” Mr Tan said on Monday.
“It is our understanding that the previous Government’s commitment remains in place – that being that V Australia will be given time to establish itself before further liberalization of the trans-Pacific route would be permitted.
“Sir Richard Branson and NSW Premier Morris Iemma today welcomed the competition, lower fares, increased tourism and employment opportunities that V Australia will bring – imagine what the result would be if Singapore Airlines was allowed to operate across the Pacific from Australia.
“Our fleet could facilitate flights not only from Sydney, but Australia’s other capital cities, including Melbourne and Brisbane too.
“The ‘Open Skies Agreement’ to be signed by Australian Prime Minister, Kevin Rudd MP, today in Washington is a welcome step, but the skies can’t truly be considered open until carriers like Singapore Airlines are allowed to fly the route.
“Like Australian Transport Minister Anthony Albanese, Singapore Airlines also believes it is in Australia’s best interest to have more access to the US market. We look forward to meeting the Minister, to discuss the progress of further liberalisation on the trans-Pacific route.
“Where Australian international routes are open to genuine competition, the winner has been the traveling public,” Mr Tan concluded.
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