How will the Virgin Atlantic brand help both V Australia and in turn Virgin Blue?
Branson: One of the advantages that Qantas has had over Virgin Blue is its long-haul network. Now Virgin Blue can compete and get some of the corporate accounts to come across from Qantas. Business wants to fly to the US, China, the UK and South Africa. With V Australia and Virgin Atlantic we can offer a range of long-haul options and level the playing field. We have spent 25 years building up the brand and a fantastic reputation and are the preferred airline for many companies on the West Coast [of the US] and V will just tag into those deals. The Virgin brand is widespread in the US with Virgin mega stores and Virgin Mobile. Godfrey: And we will be tapping into that where we can. Johannesburg is a huge Virgin market and we will get a free kick. We are also going to pick up business from travelers who have been taken for a ride on the Pacific with the most expensive business and economy class fares in the world. Flights from Australia to London are farther but 30% cheaper. Many airlin
