Australia is a nation unashamedly obsessed with airline status and loyalty points. Since Qatar Airways announced in October last year it would acquire a minority 25 per cent equity stake in Virgin Australia, subject to Australian government approval, the big question has been how a VA/QR partnership might work for frequent flyers.

Tickets have been on sale since December for new routes into Europe via Doha from June, when the European summer season begins. The extra seats are expected to bring more tourists to our shores and have put much-needed downward pressure on fares, including return business class tickets from $7500.

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