Chief executive Steve Ridgway has quashed rumours that Virgin Atlantic is seeking to form a closer alliance with Virgin Blue.
Market rumours have suggested the British airline could seek to work closer with Virgin Blue to help the Australian carrier plug the gaps in its Asian network. The fact the airline has sought alliances with several other airlines in the region prompted analysts to suggest Virgin Atlantic as a potential partner. Ridgway however has stated that the codeshare relationship it has with Virgin Blue are good enough as they are but said that ”I am sure you will see more co-operation over time. But that is something for the future.”
Under the terms of a licensing agreement between Virgin Atlantic shareholders, Singapore Airlines and Richard Branson, Virgin Blue is not currently allowed to use the Virgin moniker; even so the Australian airline has been pushing for this to be overturned.