V Australia Launch and Movements

[Brad Myer]

http://www.news.com.au/heraldsun/story/0,21985,24992850-664,00.html

Launch of V Australia in shaky market

VIRGIN Blue launches its trans-Pacific offshoot V Australia this week into the worst market ever for international airlines.

The gambit is seen by industry sources as make-or-break for Virgin chief executive Brett Godfrey.

Virgin Blue is a business the share market values at $329 million, yet its new fleet of seven Boeing 777s will cost at least $1.5 billion.

The first jet will be leased but the next three have US Government-backed finance.

Questions remain about how Virgin will fund the four remaining aircraft at a time when airlines worldwide are under intense financial pressure.

A global aviation specialist told BusinessDaily that Mr Godfrey faced "the brutal reality" of the times.

"He is coming into the route when Qantas is flooding the Pacific with extra seats on its A380 super jumbos," the specialist sai.

New competition also looms from US based Delta Airlines, the world's biggest carrier, which surprised the aviation market last month by announcing a daily Sydney-Los Angeles service from July.

"The Pacific no longer looks like the gold mine it once was when the Qantas-United Airlines duopoly creamed the profits," the specialist said.

He argued that if he was Godfrey, he would quickly arrange to push back aircraft deliveries.

"Going onto the Pacific and challenging incumbents Qantas and United Airlines is no longer the safe play it once seemed," he added.

Macquarie Bank has also warned that V Australia could face weak demand, particularly from the lucrative business and premium economy market.

A research note issued late last month flagged the likelihood of a trans-Pacific discount war.

Virgin flagged that likelihood last month when it offered a one-off Los Angeles return fare of $1199 causing Qantas to respond with a four-day $US999 package for the US market.

Macquarie says it expects more aggressive pricing as V Australia and Delta jostle for market share.

"If things weren't sufficiently challenging for Virgin Blue, the entrance of Delta on the trans-Pacific route will only make things harder," Macquarie said in its December research note.

"We believe V Australia's product will be superior to that offered by the US carriers, however the presence of four carriers on the US route could push out the expected break even period even further," Macquarie said.

Qantas, which has run its ruler over Godfrey's projections, believes V Australia could take at least three years to break even.

Last week, just seven days from taking delivery of the first 777, Mr Godfrey was refusing interviews and not responding to claims by market analysts.

Heather Jeffery, VirginBlue's public relations chief, acknowledged that the airline was launching into a difficult market.

"We know we could not have chosen a worse time to launch, but (we) are realistic about our position and the evironment we are in," she told BusinessDaily.

"What we are doing is not a gamble, there is no gambling," she declared.

Ms Jeffery says the new airline will be the final piece in the puzzle for the Virgin brand.

Apart from the looming dog fight with a cashed-up Delta, Virgin Blue begins the battle handicapped by a share price seriously eroded by the market turmoil.

Back in February 2007, before the economic downturn and at the time when V Australia was mooted, Virgin Blue stocks traded around $2.80.

On Friday they sold at 31, valuing the business at $329.9 million, about $70 million more than the cost of each 777 jet.

Costing between $US250-to-$US270 million at current list prices, three of the planes are being financed by the US Government-owned Export Import Bank.

Macquarie suggests the arrangement may not have been a first choice for Virgin.

While it notes that Virgin had $602 million in cash reserves last October, the on-balance sheet financing of three new aircraft exposed the airline to residual risks.

It notes that aircraft values are continuing to fall and that secondhand prices will recede further.

Macquarie says that with debt financing for the three planes secured and start-up costs of $55-$65 million, the airline is unlikely to suffer cash shortfalls over the next two years, even after taking account of likely operating losses.

But it adds that non-core assets, such as the company's Brisbane head office and three unencumbered Boeing 737's could be sold as a potential source of capital.

Admitting that selling these assets might be difficult in the present market, Macquarie says they illustrate the "relative flexibility" Vigin Blue has if operating conditions detriorate further.

Airlines confront the worst earnings periods in aviation history, according to the International Air Transport Association.

IATA, the world body for airlines, reported last week that the sharpest falls were likely to occur in the Asia Pacific and US markets.

"2009 is shaping up to be one of the toughest years ever in international aviation," said IATA director general Giovani Bisignani.

He forecasts $US2.5 billion in losses by global carriers in 2009 with a total $US35 billion fall-off in revenues.

[Michael Morrison]

It will be interesting to see how it plays out.

If you look at www.united.com and make a dummy booking Virgin Blue is listed as a Frequent Flyer partner. I know previously they had a limited code share relationship on certain Aussie routes, but this look as if Velocity members will also be able to earn on all UA services.... i will presume it will be reciprocal. Looks like someone updated the website before the announcement!
I think V will take traffic from QF and even NZ. Actually I think NZ have the most to lose as usually they have competed on price from this market (ie always been cheapest).... now that trophy will go to V I guess, so NZ's bookings will suffer.

If VA/UA decide to codeshare on the route (or UA pull out in favour of codeshare) it could change the game somewhat.

[Bevan Webber]

What is the chance that United drops there LA to Sydney flight and lets V Australia look after that market and UA continues with SFO-SYD. With Delta starting LAX-SYD it will be a very competitive market.

[D Chan]

What is the chance that United drops there LA to Sydney flight and lets V Australia look after that market and UA continues with SFO-SYD. With Delta starting LAX-SYD it will be a very competitive market.

I tend to think their relationship isn't that strong and probably won't get to that stage. UA will still have good position in LAX-AUS given their connections / network in US. Similarly with QF/AA and DL.
V Australia has to focus on origin-destination traffic and this limits their market.
With the amount invested in getting a new fleet, supporting the operations of the 77W, training, development of new products, pouring of resources into the new start-up, it is an extremely hard task in itself. Compound this with the worsening global economy, and another new entrant to the route - they really are facing an uphill battle

[lloyd fox]

I notice that Seattle is now in their booking screen however it shows Alaskan Airlines connections or do they plan to fly to SEA non stop?

[Michael Morrison]

I tend to think their relationship isn't that strong and probably won't get to that stage. UA will still have good position in LAX-AUS given their connections / network in US. Similarly with QF/AA and DL.

Perhaps their new FF relationship will strengthen their ties - especially in face of more competition from DL? This would ( ipresume) also give VA the feed in LA that it needs.

I notice that Seattle is now in their booking screen however it shows Alaskan Airlines connections or do they plan to fly to SEA non stop?


I presume it is just to show Seattle connections, otherwise why interline with Alsaka?

[Greg McDonald]

V Australia is actively telling people including 'spotters' to attend YSSY for the arrival of the first aircraft next Monday. In the map (link supplied) they have even marked Sheps Hill as a good viewing area!!

http://www.vaustralia.com.au/777/

[Kurt A]

V Australia is actively telling people including 'spotters' to attend YSSY for the arrival of the first aircraft next Monday. In the map (link supplied) they have even marked Sheps Hill as a good viewing area!!

http://www.vaustralia.com.au/777/

Courtesy of Browneye and Amsy :)
So enjoy your food..!!

http://yssyforum.net/board/announcement.php?f=2

[Robert S]

V Australia is actively telling people including 'spotters' to attend YSSY for the arrival of the first aircraft next Monday. In the map (link supplied) they have even marked Sheps Hill as a good viewing area!!

http://www.vaustralia.com.au/777/

I'm assuming that e-mail went out to everyone on the V-Mail list... but yes, nice to see them openly embracing a "spotters event" and making reference to "Shep's Hill".

[Scott Lindsell]

Handover/launch event at BFI tomorrow Feb 6th (PST)
Scott.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Handover/launch event at BFI tomorrow Feb 6th (PST)
Scott.

Scott - Paul's over there for the delivery and will be on the delivery flight. He said he'd try to get in touch but didn't think he'd have enough spare time in Seattle!

Cheers

[Philip Argy]

...
In the map (link supplied) they have even marked Sheps Hill as a good viewing area!!
http://www.vaustralia.com.au/777/

Good to see Shep's [don't forget the apostrophe :)] Hill on the map, but why is the VB Domestic Terminal shown? I assume that V Australia will not use the domestic apron when in operation. Is the inaugural flight going to be parked there for the welcome?

[Justin L]

Good to see Shep's [don't forget the apostrophe :)] Hill on the map, but why is the VB Domestic Terminal shown? I assume that V Australia will not use the domestic apron when in operation. Is the inaugural flight going to be parked there for the welcome?

I think they are just showing the proximity of Shep's Hill to T2. I suppose you could even go to T2 and go to the end of the pier by gate 39 to watch it arrive.

[Daniel M]

For Melbourne people, VOZ will be parked at gate F12 occasionally during the period of its training flights.

[Dan Hammond]

For Melbourne people, VOZ will be parked at gate F12 occasionally during the period of its training flights.

Excellent, Hopefully i can get over there when its in.

[Scott Lindsell]

Scott - Paul's over there for the delivery and will be on the delivery flight. He said he'd try to get in touch but didn't think he'd have enough spare time in Seattle!

Cheers


Hey Andrew,
Oh I really wish he had I've been off for a couple of days and would have been happy to show him around. I've just now got back from BFI. -VOZ flew in at 2203 from VCV and SLC and has been parked on the Boeing ramp for the night (quite unusual seeing as though it isn't a Boeing company aircraft anymore - that never happens). Those internal purple lights at night are fantastic!
Hope he has an amazing time & can't wait to read his article!
Scott.

[Anthony T]

From Virgin Blue

V Australia Takes Delivery of its First 777 Aircraft

- Australia's New International Airline Takes off this Month


Australia's newest international airline, V Australia, has taken delivery today of the first of seven brand new Boeing 777-300ER aircraft at a formal handover ceremony at the Boeing factory in Seattle.


Virgin Blue co-founder and Virgin Group Chairman, Sir Richard Branson, flew in to witness the historic handover which was made to 15 V Australia and Virgin Blue team members who won a competition to fly to Seattle and collect the plane with Virgin Blue Group Chief Executive and co-founder, Brett Godfrey, and V Australia Executive General Manager, Scott Swift.


The V Australia and Virgin Blue team member prize winners are considered VIPs in the delivery team, participating in a trip which includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the Boeing wide-body factory at Everett where the V Australia aircraft was manufactured, celebrations around the delivery and the opportunity to be among the first in the world to fly on V Australia on board the private ferry flight back to Australia.


The 360-seat aircraft named "Didgeree Blue" with the blessing of the Yolgnu people from the Northern Territory Australia, includes in-flight bars, state-of-the-art entertainment, mood lighting and offers Business, Premium International and International Economy classes.


It was officially delivered to the airline team who opened the aircraft doors to showcase the designer interior to team members; media and a contingent of USA-based Australian actors.


Present at the ceremony were Aussie-born celebrities; Julian McMahon, Jason Clarke, Holly Valance and Kimberley Joseph; who brought a touch of 'Hollywood' to the event and lent their support to Australia's newest international airline by flying in from LA to join the V Australia team.


In the midst of Seattle's chilly winter temperatures, the Boeing Aircraft company's hangar was transformed into a surprise Aussie beach party for the team and guests, with both Boeing and V Australia senior executives donning board shorts and zinc cream against a backdrop of palm trees, deck chairs, tropical fruit drinks and beach tunes, to bring a touch of informal Australian inspiration to the aircraft delivery event.


V Australia's first Boeing 777-300ER will touch down on Australian soil for the first time next Monday, 9 February, in Sydney.


En-route it will make a stopover in Los Angeles where 500 of LA's top industry and corporate guests will have the opportunity to see the aircraft at an Australian-themed event at Los Angeles World Airport.


On arrival in Australia, after a low flyover of Sydney, V Australia will host an "open house" inspection of the aircraft for 400 guests and every available member of V Australia's more than 300 team who will travel to Sydney to welcome their first aircraft. Representatives from the Yolgnu people, the traditional keepers of the Yirdaki (Didgeridoo) will travel all the way from the "top end" to Sydney to give a traditional welcome to "Didgeree Blue" when it arrives into Australia for the very first time.


"Didgeree Blue" will then be put to work carrying out proving flights to gain final operating approvals from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority, for V Australia's Air Operators Certificate (AOC).


Speaking from Seattle, Sir Richard Branson said V Australia will follow in the footsteps of its parent airline, Virgin Blue in true Virgin tradition, by providing much needed competition, affordable air fares for consumers and a fresh choice of airline.


"This new airline and indeed, the actual aircraft itself, boasts a range of product features that are second to none, including the two in-flight 'V Bars.' I am confident that like all Virgin airlines worldwide, V Australia, its people, its product, its prices and in particular, its personality, will prove to be a great stimulus for travel and tourism when the airline takes off.


"I am delighted to be here in Seattle to witness the handover of V Australia's first aircraft and look forward to being on the inaugural flight from Sydney to Los Angeles later this month."


Virgin Blue Chief Executive, Brett Godfrey, said, "The delivery of this aircraft has been a much anticipated moment for the entire V Australia team as it represents a step towards our goal to launch a brand new contemporary international airline for Australia."


"The combination of our Virgin service and the outstanding features and comfort levels on board the 777 will be a winner on the trans-Pacific route and we cannot wait to get the first aircraft home and into commercial service."


"This is the first Australian-owned Boeing 777-300ER and the first aircraft of its type to operate on the trans-Pacific route. We're especially pleased about that and to be flying the most fuel efficient aircraft in its class."


V Australia's inaugural flight is scheduled to take off from Sydney, Australia to Los Angeles, USA on Friday, 27 February 2009, building to daily flights by 20 March, 2009. Brisbane-Los Angeles flights start from 8 April, 2009.


For V Australia bookings ex America visit www.vaustralia.com, phone our award winning Guest Contact Centre on 1-800-444-0260 or contact your preferred travel agent.


For V Australia bookings ex Australia visit www.vaustralia.com, au, phone our award winning Guest Contact Centre on 13 8287 or contact your preferred travel agent. Flights are subject to regulatory approval.




And the LAX delivery event program


TIME: 2 pm check-in for 3 pm arrival of the V Australia aircraft

DATE: Friday, February 6, 2009

WHERE: Flight Path Learning Center and Museum
6661 West Imperial Highway
Los Angeles International Airport

WHO: -- Sir Richard Branson, co-Founder Virgin Blue, Chairman
Virgin Group
-- Office of the Mayor
-- Brett Godfrey, Chief Executive Officer Virgin Blue Group
-- Scott Swift, Executive General Manager V Australia
-- The V Australia team

VISUALS: 1. First-ever arrival of aircraft with V Australia livery
2. Principals walk on aircraft wing to pop champagne
bottles
3. Red carpet welcome including principals and
entertainment industry celebrities
4. Remarks by principals
5. Aircraft interior tour with principals
6. Brief period for one-on-one interviews with principals

MEDIA PARKING: Pre-registered TV and radio media with broadcast-equipped
vehicles may park adjacent to Flight Path Learning Center.
ALL other pre-registered media will be issued an event
parking pass that will allow them to park in a specially
designated nearby parking lot. Event shuttle van will
depart the parking lot and Flight Path Learning Center at
15-minute intervals beginning 1:30 p.m., with the last van
departing Flight Path at 7 p.m.


RSVP is essential for security purposes: To confirm your attendance, please RSVP to LAX Public Relations, by 4 pm Thursday, February 5 by e-mail to dbaker2@lawa.org or call (424) 646-5260. For security purposes we require your full name AND date of birth.

[Nigel C]

Good to see Shep's [don't forget the apostrophe :)] Hill on the map, but why is the VB Domestic Terminal shown? I assume that V Australia will not use the domestic apron when in operation. Is the inaugural flight going to be parked there for the welcome?

The B777 cannot park on any of the T2 bays at this stage. Bay 49 can accomodate B747's, but I reckon the B777-300ER would be too long for them to consider putting any stop bar markings down on that bay.

The inaugural flight will be parking near the western apron initially, before being towed to Dom-6 for further formalities.

[Lukas M]

New route MEL-LAX is displayed on their homepage. From 15th September 2009.

[Michael Morrison]

New route MEL-LAX is displayed on their homepage. From 15th September 2009.

Wow! Will the 773er be payload restriced? Isnt that a similar distance to SYD-YVR that AC said was load restricted?

I guess JNB is off the table for now.

[Marty H]

New route MEL-LAX is displayed on their homepage. From 15th September 2009.


AWESOME, no need to go to SYD anymore;)

[Anthony T]

The inaugural flight will be parking near the western apron initially, before being towed to Dom-6 for further formalities.


The official invite says "Short airside walk from The Lounge to the aircraft." It will probably be nearer than DOM-6 but not at a gate:confused:

I guess JNB is off the table for now.

Probably no point announcing the JNB route in the USA.
Maybe saving that one for Monday.

[Chris Thurtell]

New route MEL-LAX is displayed on their homepage. From 15th September 2009.

Interesting.. I can't find any direct flights if I put in dates post September 15.

[Dan Hammond]

So we are finally going to get some competition on the MEL-LAX Route (apart from the seasonal UA we got for a short while)

According to the booking system the flights are as follows:
VA11 Depart MEL 0915 Arrive LAX 0640
VA12 Depart LAX 2230 Arrive MEL 0715

[Michael Morrison]

I take back my words of JNB.

Seems SYD-JNB is the next route - Branson mentioned it in LA.

[Rhys Xanthis]

I take back my words of JNB.

Seems SYD-JNB is the next route - Branson mentioned it in LA.

Just beat me to it!

Launch date TBA.

[Marty H]

Shaky launch MEH bring on the airfare WAR:D

http://www.news.com.au/travel/story/0,28318,25020981-5014090,00.html

[James K]

So what happened to Bransons "4 engines for long haul" mantra? ;)

[Nigel C]

It didn't sound environmentally friendly any more, especially as Virgin started doing trials with environmentally friendly fuels.

[Mike W]

So what happened to Bransons "4 engines for long haul" mantra? ;)

Nothing to do with V Aus. :p

Even VS have removed it (the logo) from their 346's, etc and have since ordered a bunch of twin engined Dreamliners (15 or so from memory) :cool:

[Arthur T]

I take back my words of JNB.
Seems SYD-JNB is the next route - Branson mentioned it in LA.

But why not replacing VS to run HKG?

VA's acquision on VS 200/201 HKG - SYD leg would bring lots more advantages!!!
VS can still remain the route by co-marketing the remaining leg with VA.

Reasons:
1. Fleet Advantage
- More Seats on VA B77A than VS A346
- Newer Cabin: More attractive and competitive to CX's New Cabins, especially VA's "Mood Lighting"
- VA to operate means Australian. More Australian crews, More Austrailan smiles, More Austarlian accents, More user-friendly to Australians - More attractive to Australians.
- Morderner Entertainment System: Widescreen Panasonic AVOD on VA fleets; VA means more Australian entertainment, More Australian CDs, More Australian movies, More attractive to Australians.
2. Network Advantage
- VA to HKG means easier to establish more services to HKG and connect VS service to London. Travelling time from MEL, BNE, OOL, DRW, ADL & PER would be reduced and competitors would be increased. VA would also be benefited by converting & employing DJ's B737ER on routes from those cities to Hong Kong and connect towards London.
- VA to HKG means competiton against JQ. VA can codeshare/acquire HK Express to other Asian destinations. Alternatively, VA can codeshare with other carriers to other Asian and European destinations, such as NH to HND, at the end, Australians would have a better service ex-Australia to Asia/Europe.
- VA to HKG means more user-friendly for Velocity commutors. The earning/redeeming rate would be more competitive to QF Frequent Flyer & CX Marco Polo Club.
- VA to HKG means more service, more often.
3. Cost Advantage:
- All VS ground cost on SYD would be subsequently replaced by VA, and VA enjoys cost advantage by combining the costs into other routes by VA.
- As I remember, HKG offers new carriers first year discount on landing/parking fees, the entire route would then receive 1 extra year reduction hence cost advantage on the entire service.

*Further Discussion Welcomed*

[Michael Morrison]

Hi Arthur,

I'm not sure more seats is a good thing. VS don't seem to fill the SYD-HKG leg so I'm not sure why they would need more capacity.

Re Mood lighting and the general cabin ambience -
from what I have seen of the 3D tour and picsthus far, VS's A346 interior will still be better than VA's. VS have a great scheme in PE and Business. The grey panelling (rather than white/cream) looks awesome! As do the loo's with the cool blue lights...


Perhaps if they had smaller aircraft it could work, but I just can;t see it working at the moment with a 777-300er. It just seems like alot of capacity to thow on a route. Even QF have cut back some HKG services and look at all the feed they have with CX in HKG.

I reckon VA with their initial fleet of 7 will try and go daily with each of their LAX services eventually and do the 5 per week JNB. That leaves them 2 aircraft by my shaky calculations to do another route. Where that might be is anyones guess???

[Justin L]

But why not replacing VS to run HKG?

VA's acquision on VS 200/201 HKG - SYD leg would bring lots more advantages!!!
VS can still remain the route by co-marketing the remaining leg with VA.

Reasons:
1. Fleet Advantage
- More Seats on VA B77A than VS A346
- Newer Cabin: More attractive and competitive to CX's New Cabins, especially VA's "Mood Lighting"
- VA to operate means Australian. More Australian crews, More Austrailan smiles, More Austarlian accents, More user-friendly to Australians - More attractive to Australians.
- Morderner Entertainment System: Widescreen Panasonic AVOD on VA fleets; VA means more Australian entertainment, More Australian CDs, More Australian movies, More attractive to Australians.
2. Network Advantage
- VA to HKG means easier to establish more services to HKG and connect VS service to London. Travelling time from MEL, BNE, OOL, DRW, ADL & PER would be reduced and competitors would be increased. VA would also be benefited by converting & employing DJ's B737ER on routes from those cities to Hong Kong and connect towards London.
- VA to HKG means competiton against JQ. VA can codeshare/acquire HK Express to other Asian destinations. Alternatively, VA can codeshare with other carriers to other Asian and European destinations, such as NH to HND, at the end, Australians would have a better service ex-Australia to Asia/Europe.
- VA to HKG means more user-friendly for Velocity commutors. The earning/redeeming rate would be more competitive to QF Frequent Flyer & CX Marco Polo Club.
- VA to HKG means more service, more often.
3. Cost Advantage:
- All VS ground cost on SYD would be subsequently replaced by VA, and VA enjoys cost advantage by combining the costs into other routes by VA.
- As I remember, HKG offers new carriers first year discount on landing/parking fees, the entire route would then receive 1 extra year reduction hence cost advantage on the entire service.

*Further Discussion Welcomed*

I can see what you mean, but conversely couldn't VA just code share on the VS flights to HKG and pretty much have the same result as you suggest in many of the areas from a network perspective? Then VA's own planes can be put on new routes that have limited competition like JNB etc to increase their overall Virgin group network presence.

[D Chan]

But why not replacing VS to run HKG?

VA's acquision on VS 200/201 HKG - SYD leg would bring lots more advantages!!!
VS can still remain the route by co-marketing the remaining leg with VA.

Reasons:
1. Fleet Advantage
- More Seats on VA B77A than VS A346
- Newer Cabin: More attractive and competitive to CX's New Cabins, especially VA's "Mood Lighting"
- VA to operate means Australian. More Australian crews, More Austrailan smiles, More Austarlian accents, More user-friendly to Australians - More attractive to Australians.
- Morderner Entertainment System: Widescreen Panasonic AVOD on VA fleets; VA means more Australian entertainment, More Australian CDs, More Australian movies, More attractive to Australians.
2. Network Advantage
- VA to HKG means easier to establish more services to HKG and connect VS service to London. Travelling time from MEL, BNE, OOL, DRW, ADL & PER would be reduced and competitors would be increased. VA would also be benefited by converting & employing DJ's B737ER on routes from those cities to Hong Kong and connect towards London.
- VA to HKG means competiton against JQ. VA can codeshare/acquire HK Express to other Asian destinations. Alternatively, VA can codeshare with other carriers to other Asian and European destinations, such as NH to HND, at the end, Australians would have a better service ex-Australia to Asia/Europe.
- VA to HKG means more user-friendly for Velocity commutors. The earning/redeeming rate would be more competitive to QF Frequent Flyer & CX Marco Polo Club.
- VA to HKG means more service, more often.
3. Cost Advantage:
- All VS ground cost on SYD would be subsequently replaced by VA, and VA enjoys cost advantage by combining the costs into other routes by VA.
- As I remember, HKG offers new carriers first year discount on landing/parking fees, the entire route would then receive 1 extra year reduction hence cost advantage on the entire service.

*Further Discussion Welcomed*

this is not as simple as just swapping aircraft - they need to get governement approval as the 2nd Australian airline to fly to hong kong. suppose this is not too hard though, then there are airworthiness issues, and also there are crewing, rostering, patterns that they will need to build into their system. But flying to Hong Kong still makes more sense than flying to JNB - how much business traffic is there from Australia to South Africa?

re: your point on competing with Cathay - Cathay still has the upper hand in frequency, network and destination (intra-asia). With VA, how many flights a day can they offer? It will take them years to get enough pax to fly double daily on a 773ER. With network, airlines like SQ, CX will always have the advantage over Qantas, VS, BA etc. There simply is no added advantage for VA if they fly to HKG. What difference does it make if say, VA flies on the route instead of VS?

VA can codeshare/acquire HK Express to other Asian destinations there's no certainty they will cooperate, furthermore HK Express does not have a lot of destinations.

Morderner Entertainment System: Widescreen Panasonic AVOD on VA fleets; VA means more Australian entertainment, More Australian CDs, More Australian movies, More attractive to Australians.
not all the pax flying on routes like these are Australian - only appeals to half if not 1/3 of all the pax that would fly on the route.

[Michael Morrison]

not all the pax flying on routes like these are Australian - only appeals to half if not 1/3 of all the pax that would fly on the route.

Plus I'm sure VS actually have some SYD based crew that just do SYD-HKG-SYG on VS200/201

[Arthur T]

I can see what you mean, but conversely couldn't VA just code share on the VS flights to HKG and pretty much have the same result as you suggest in many of the areas from a network perspective? Then VA's own planes can be put on new routes that have limited competition like JNB etc to increase their overall Virgin group network presence.

But how about the current partonage on the SYD - JNB by QF? Furthermore, SA currently just codesharing the service. I believe if there is such high partonage/potential, there would already other airlines (eg. SQ/EK/LA etc) start to promote on this route or SA to operate its own service.

I would still support for a VA service to HKG. If swapping carrier is not the best solution, then I believe VA can operate a daily from MEL & OOL to HKG after, or perferably before JNB. This can enable more service on the entire MEL & OOL - LHR, and it will help with the partonage on VS200/201 as well. Furthermore, I believe there isn't too much competition bewteen OOL - Europe/Asia market yet, and lots of HKG tour groups will first stop OOL actually, hence it would save traveller's time.

Finally, VA can consider to run a daily B737-800 service out of CNS to HKG or SIN etc, as QF/JQ isn't doing those services and is mainly dominated by foreign carriers.

[Michael Morrison]

I would still support for a VA service to HKG. If swapping carrier is not the best solution, then I believe VA can operate a daily from MEL & OOL to HKG after, or perferably before JNB. This can enable more service on the entire MEL & OOL - LHR, and it will help with the partonage on VS200/201 as well. .


They won't start OOL. Firstly, Air Asiz X pretty much have the market covered for OOL-Asia.

Secondly I dont thinkt he HGK-LHR flights really need much more feed - those flights are always chockers which has helped with the SYD-HKG legs lower loads. Perhaps tyhe new flight has eased this somewhat.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/business/story/0,28124,25025067-36418,00.html

[NickN]

V Australia doing a 3 x weekly service to Rome would be nice.

A disproportionate amount of european travellers from Australia always seem to venture to Italy during their visit. Plus I could see plenty of bums on seats for 1st and Buiness class, plenty of Oz/Italian business ties.

Would break the current mould thats for sure.

[Ellis Taylor]

But how about the current partonage on the SYD - JNB by QF? Furthermore, SA currently just codesharing the service. I believe if there is such high partonage/potential, there would already other airlines (eg. SQ/EK/LA etc) start to promote on this route or SA to operate its own service.

I would still support for a VA service to HKG. If swapping carrier is not the best solution, then I believe VA can operate a daily from MEL & OOL to HKG after, or perferably before JNB. This can enable more service on the entire MEL & OOL - LHR, and it will help with the partonage on VS200/201 as well. Furthermore, I believe there isn't too much competition bewteen OOL - Europe/Asia market yet, and lots of HKG tour groups will first stop OOL actually, hence it would save traveller's time.

Finally, VA can consider to run a daily B737-800 service out of CNS to HKG or SIN etc, as QF/JQ isn't doing those services and is mainly dominated by foreign carriers.

Just to pick up on the SAA point, both SAA and Qantas find the current arrangement whereby QF operate the SYD-JNB and SAA the PER-JNB is much more lucrative than if both carriers operated both routes. It's one of the reasons why they have kept that arrangement going, despite the fact that it basically offers no competition between Australia and South Africa. I'm not sure if they do it from SYD, but from PER at least SQ and MH promote connecting services through to JNB via their hubs.

[Adam T]

The flights to South Africa make sense to me, there are a lot of ex-pat South Africans currently living in Australia, a lot of which are in Sydney and Perth. I remember reading an article a year or so back that said the growth in South Africans emigrating to Aus was at around 35% p.a. and figures where at around 4,500 p.a.

I can also see this as an advantage to Virgin Atlantic as they fly to South Africa from London and Manchester and can provide an alternate route to Australia for brits wanting to see both Africa and Australia.

[Owen H]

And how, exactly, do Virgin plan to get to South Africa?

I hope they are aware they can't go blasting off south like Qantas do! Not many airports at S70.

I wonder if passengers will be prepared to accept a flight that is a few hours longer (maybe even needing a tech stop?) in order to fly V Australia?

[Rhys Xanthis]

Very good point Owen - we had this discussion before, but I don't think we got a real answer.

Perhaps time to start it up again!

From memory they need 330 Minute ETOPS certification on the b773er.

[Grahame Hutchison]

ETOPS - Engines Turning Or Passengers Swimming

[Michael Morrison]

Rumour is a SYD-PER-JNB flight.

[Radi K]

Finally, VA can consider to run a daily B737-800 service out of CNS to HKG or SIN etc, as QF/JQ isn't doing those services and is mainly dominated by foreign carriers.

Someone told me something similar might not be far off using 737-700s with PB tails. Ex a Northern aus destination to Asia.

[Rhys Xanthis]

Rumour is a SYD-PER-JNB flight.
now THAT is very interesting...could take QF and SAA in one hit.

edit: would domestic sectors for per-syd and syd-per be allowed?

[Montague S]

And how, exactly, do Virgin plan to get to South Africa?

I hope they are aware they can't go blasting off south like Qantas do! Not many airports at S70.

I wonder if passengers will be prepared to accept a flight that is a few hours longer (maybe even needing a tech stop?) in order to fly V Australia?

can always blast west to Perth, god only knows that the nonstop price out of here is beyond ridiculous, it was cheaper for me to fly SQ when I visited the Rainbow nation, even got a stopover for free for 2 days.

what puzzles me is the fact that Emirates charge in excess of $3000 return to South Africa from Australia, yet Etihad only charge $1500 or so.

[Owen H]

They could do a domestic sector if they wanted to.

I can't see how they "take out Qantas" with a flight that is a few hours longer with a stopover!

They'd be more of a threat to SAA on that route. I often wonder though if they will actually bring down fares, or they'll just sit a hundred bucks cheaper than their competitors and share the loads.

[Robert Zweck]

I see where the V Australia B777 is doing some training through Adelaide.

Doing a "touch and go" around 1100 tomorrow and again several hours later

Where would it be coming from?

Then more next week. Plenty of viewing opportunities.

[Bill S]

I had a look at their new 777 last night while waiting for the Metro to be loaded - It's quite large!
I stood in front of the engine while the FO took a photo with my camera phone.

[Grahame Hutchison]

It's off to Melbourne this morning ...

VH-VOZ VA9094 14/02/2009 08:35 V Australia B777-3ZG(ER) Sydney-Melbourne

[Michael Mak]

It's in Adelaide at the moment

http://img12.imageshack.us/img12/6980/vhvozpp4.jpg

[David Wilkie]

Back to Melbourne for another touch and go then back to Sydney around 1:30pm

[Dan Hammond]

oh crap i was at Melbourne Airport this morning i must have just missed it this morning.

[David Wilkie]

Just did a touch and go at Avalon looks like he's headed back to Adelaide again

[Michael Mak]

Just did a touch and go at Avalon looks like he's headed back to Adelaide again
Currently cruising at FL360 heading to ADL.

[Kurt A]

Here's today's final movements for VH-VOZ:

AVV ADL 1310/1250
ADL SYD 1305/1635
SYD BNE 1735/1805

Departs for some more flights on Monday...

[Blake Riley]

so it wont be doing any flights tomorrow in or out of sydney.

[Marty H]

so it wont be doing any flights tomorrow in or out of sydney.

No will stay in BNE for the V Australia Family Day.

[Nathan Long]

Back to Melbourne for another touch and go then back to Sydney around 1:30pm

A geniune touch and go or a landing, taxy and then take-off?

[David Wilkie]

Genuine Touch and go. Did not stop

[D Chan]

what puzzles me is the fact that Emirates charge in excess of $3000 return to South Africa from Australia, yet Etihad only charge $1500 or so.

that's what airlines do, they try to undercut each other..

And how, exactly, do Virgin plan to get to South Africa?

I hope they are aware they can't go blasting off south like Qantas do! Not many airports at S70.

I wonder if passengers will be prepared to accept a flight that is a few hours longer (maybe even needing a tech stop?) in order to fly V Australia?

There have been quite a few IFSD with the GE90-115B in the Air France 777-300ER fleet.. as you mentioned it there's not a lot of airports in that area, might be pushing the ETOPS limit a bit

[Grahame Hutchison]

Off to Brisbane from Sydney ...

ACARS mode: 2 Aircraft reg: .VH-VOZ
Message label: 24 Block id: 7 Msg. no: M31A
Flight id: VA9092
Message content:-
TKO01VAU9092 /--140630YSSYYBBN
9299,1,268 ,266 ,0 ,2E088104,N,N,N,Y,
,,,LTR,REFUEL
,,,LTR,REFUEL
,,,LTR,REFUEL
,,,,,
-------------------------------------[14/02/2009 17:30]

[Robert Zweck]

I was at Modbury today at 12.00 as it straightened up to go down the Adelaide RWY 23 localiser

Impressive

[Craig Murray]

Anyone get a shot of it departing Sydney this morning? I believe my 767 may have been in the way of anyone photographing from the mound? Sorry about that, our bay was occupied!

[Nathan Long]

Genuine Touch and go. Did not stop

That would be a pretty cool sight.

[Kurt A]

VH-VOZ movements for Monday:

BNE SYD 0730/1000
SYD SYD 1230/1900
SYD BNE 2100/2000

[Lee G]

Any update to the 1230 departure from YSSY?
:confused:

Thanks

[Kurt A]

SYD SYD 1230/1900 is correct.

VH-VOZ is expected to arrive in AKL sometime this afternoon, time unknown at this stage.

SYD BNE 2100/2000 will also still operate as normal.

[Lee G]

Kurt,

Thanks for the information.

VOZ went off about 1 hr late 1328HR - Almost gave up went to leave then saw it taxiing.
:D
Thanks again,

Regards,
Lee

[David Ramsay]

You sure it's coming to NZAA?

If it departed YSSY at 1328 local it should arrive at NZAA around 1830 local. There's no sign of it on the arrivals board at NZAA and as of 1810 local it hasn't shown up on Flight Explorer which normally picks up traffic as it enters NZ airspace mid Tasman.

[David Ramsay]

Mystery solved.

It took a rather strange route, tracking via YLHI and YSNF before heading south to ELNOS. Showing an arrival at NZAA of 1911 local.

[Nathan Long]

It took a rather strange route, tracking via YLHI and YSNF before heading south to ELNOS.

No ETOPS certification yet?

[David Ramsay]

Maybe, but it's not like it could land at YLHI or YSNF.

Does it need ETOPS for trans Tasman? I'm pretty sure the 73's and 320's that cross the Tasman aren't ETOPS certified.

Maybe one of our tech crew could comment.

[James Herbert]

Anyone able to crystal ball it's movements around Sydney on Wed 18th & Thurs 19th this week...?

Ta....:)

[Raymond Rowe]

Maybe, but it's not like it could land at YLHI or YSNF.

Does it need ETOPS for trans Tasman? I'm pretty sure the 73's and 320's that cross the Tasman aren't ETOPS certified.

Maybe one of our tech crew could comment.

All non ETOPS aircraft have to be with in 90 minutes of an airport.Most of the trans Tasman 737 and A320 are all ETOPS.

[Kurt A]

VH-VOZ into NZAA today was part of it's AOC proving flight, operating a simulated SYD/LAX with AKL as a diversion.

VH-VOZ lands in Sydney tomorrow and then departs for Melbourne on the 18th.

17FEB BNE SYD 1330/1600
18FEB SYD MEL 0600/0730

[David Ramsay]

VH-VOZ into NZAA today was part of it's AOC proving flight, operating a simulated SYD/LAX with AKL as a diversion.

All makes sense now. They actually went quite some distance north east past YSNF on the same track QF was taking to KLAX (a couple of hundred miles behind them) before they headed for NZAA.

[David Ramsay]

Departed NZAA 0853Z (2153 local) for YBBN. ETA 1023Z.

[Grahame Hutchison]

V Australia are not using consistent flight numbers at present so I had to dive into the logs to get the true tracks.

VH-VOZ VA9093 16/02/2009 09:35 V Australia B777-3ZG(ER) Brisbane-Sydney
-> Tracked Via MEHAN,CORKY,BULGA,BOREE
VH-VOZ VA9092 16/02/2009 13:28 V Australia B777-3ZG(ER) Sydney-Auckland

[lloyd fox]

VH-VPD due Brissie on Friday morning but may come as early as Thursday.

It will be parked here for some time.

Cheers Lloyd

[Andrew McLaughlin]

VH-VOZ might be doing a photo pass or two east of the Harbour Bridge at ~3000ft this arvo around 1530... weather permitting...:rolleyes:

[Mike W]

VH-VOZ might be doing a photo pass or two east of the Harbour Bridge at ~3000ft this arvo around 1530... weather permitting...:rolleyes:

Not too confident on this one as the forecast is to bucket down! :o

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Has been cancelled...will try again Saturday!

[Joseph Saragozza.]

VH-VOZ lands in Sydney tomorrow and then departs for Melbourne on the 18th.

do know what time she will heading into melbourne kurt?

[Kurt A]

18FEB SYD MEL 0600/0730
.

[lloyd fox]

Just took off at YBBN a few mins ago so running over a hour late.

[Sarah C]

Just taxiing now in SYD for a 16R departure - looks like it is 2 hours behind its planned schedule.

[Marty H]

Just taxiing now in SYD for a 16R departure - looks like it is 2 hours behind its planned schedule.


All part of the plan to under cut Qantas by an hour with their delayed departures:p

[Greg F]

All part of the plan to under cut Qantas by an hour with their delayed departures:p

You are a mad man!

Not like your OTP is the best in the world either :p

[Marty H]

You are a mad man!

Not like your OTP is the best in the world either :p

It cant be they pulled the 'Most on time airline in Australia' stickers from L1 and L2 doors on most aircraft Ive noticed:p

[matthew mcdonald]

Can somebody please post the movements of it for tomorrow and Friday if possible.

Thanks

[Kurt A]

VH-VOZ is not due back in Sydney for a while.

Today, Melbourne, Adelaide and Avalon got to play with it, and it's going to be like that for a few more days, at least until Monday I hear.

[Rhys Xanthis]

Any chance we will get to see it over here in the west?

[Kurt A]

It's not scheduled for YPPH vist unfortunately.

[Grahame Hutchison]

VH-VOZ VA9093 18/02/2009 08:19 V Australia B777-3ZG(ER) <== Sydney-Melbourne

Then onto Adelaide

ACARS mode: 2 Aircraft reg: .VH-VOZ
Message label: 5U Block id: 7 Msg. no: M04A
Flight id: VA9093
Message content:-
FT YMML,YPAD
-------------------------------------[18/02/2009 08:34]

[Daniel M]

Will be touching down here at about 1940 local

[Daniel M]

Has landed in MEL, taxiing into F12 now. Will be towed off in the morning to a G bay on the freight apron due refuelling issues.

[Marty H]

Dep MEL around 8:55

[Robert Zweck]

Thursday morning.....

It has arrived in ADL about 30 minutes ago at about 2315Z, did a touch and go on RWY 05 and is on its way to Avalon. Callsign was Virgin 1993, it was to change to Virgin 1994 for the ADL-Avalon leg but after some discussion/ eliminate confusion, etc it continued on as Virgin 1993.

Is scheduled to come back here to Adelaide in about 90 minutes and then again late this afternoon at 1730 local.

[lloyd fox]

VH-VPD is currently in LAX readying for tonights LAX-BNE flight arr BNE mid morning Friday.

[Rhys Xanthis]

It's not scheduled for YPPH vist unfortunately.

I thought as much :(

Oh well!

[Daniel M]

V Australia was granted its AOC (Air Operator's Certificate) by CASA this afternoon, meaning it's all systems go for the February 27th launch!! Congratulations to all:p

[Mike W]

V Australia was granted its AOC (Air Operator's Certificate) by CASA this afternoon, meaning it's all systems go for the February 27th launch!! Congratulations to all:p

Great News for V Australia... and Australian-US Travellers.

[Marty H]

V Australia was granted its AOC (Air Operator's Certificate) by CASA this afternoon, meaning it's all systems go for the February 27th launch!! Congratulations to all:p


AWESOME:D Huge effort from all involved right from the start, now lets reap the rewards;)

[Kurt A]

WHOO HOO! V AUSTRALIA SET TO SOAR WITH AOC APPROVAL

Thursday 19 February 2009:

Australia’s newest international airline, V Australia, has today been cleared for take off by the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) after successfully completing all requirements and receiving its Air Operators Certificate (AOC).

The final processes to secure an AOC, which V Australia applied for in August 2007, required a number of exercises over the past fortnight including an emergency evacuation demonstration and a recent proving flight, closely monitored by CASA officials, which incorporated a mock medical emergency diversion to Auckland, New Zealand.

V Australia is the first Australian operator to receive approvals for a Boeing 777-300ER on the Australian AOC.

V Australia’s Executive General Manager, Scott Swift, who was on hand late this afternoon to personally receive the AOC on behalf of the elated V Australia team, said the AOC was a credit to the entire V Australia team.

“It’s amazing what a single piece of paper can signify. What I hold in my hand is the result of three years of hard work, effort and dedication by hundreds of people across the V Australia and Virgin Blue teams.”

He continued, “Starting a long-haul airline from scratch is a phenomenal exercise and the V Australia and Virgin Blue teams have thrown their heart and souls into our mission to bring Australians a brand new, innovative, imaginative and customer service focused international airline.

“In the same way Virgin Blue forever changed the face of aviation in Australia nearly nine years ago, with our AOC in hand, today marks the beginning of the new era of trans-Pacific flying as V Australia lifts the standard for product, service and affordability on this market.”

To celebrate this significant milestone V Australia has launched a special ‘AOC WHOO HOO! Thumbs-Up Sale’ fare of $1199* (International Economy return fare) for flights between Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne and Los Angeles on sale from 20 February until lift-off (midnight 27 February) or until sold out, for travel between 27 February and 15 June, 2009. The airline is also offering an International Business Class return Sale Fare of $5999* and Premium Economy return Sale Fare of $2499* for the same travel period and ports, only valid for travel from 1 March to 15 June 2009.

V Australia’s inaugural commercial flight to Los Angeles will depart from Sydney International Airport at 3pm on Friday 27 February, 2009, marking the carrier’s historic entrance into the Australian aviation industry and providing travellers with a dynamic new international airline option. For those wanting to take part in the once-in-a-lifetime launch festivities there are still a handful of seats available on the inaugural flight from Sydney to Los Angeles which will feature in-flight entertainment and special commemorative gifts.

Flights from Brisbane to Los Angeles will follow shortly after on Wednesday 8 April, 2009, with non-stop services between Melbourne and Los Angeles commencing on Tuesday 15 September, 2009.


.

[Marty H]

Just wanted to know if you turn the Ansett A around what does it look like:p

[Steve Jones]

I believe V are flogging off the last seats on the inaugural for about $900 return all in.

[Michael Morrison]

I believe V are flogging off the last seats on the inaugural for about $900 return all in.

$888 I believe witha 5 day minimum stay.

not a bad deal at all!

[lloyd fox]

VH-VPD arrived Brisbane at 0920 today.

[Robert Zweck]

VH-VOZ was in Adelaide again this morning....went back to Avalon

I believe that VH-VPD will be in Adelaide twice on Sunday morning.

[Grant Smith]

Just wanted to know if you turn the Ansett A around what does it look like:p

A bit old hat there Marty - we were over that one about 2 weeks ago, eh Swaggy...

[Marty H]

A bit old hat there Marty - we were over that one about 2 weeks ago, eh Swaggy...

Dawson told me about it on Sunday in BNE;)

[Kieran Wells]

Anyone know of anything "special" like the spotters arrival that Vaustralia may be planning for first Revenue flight to LA on Friday?

[Kurt A]

VH-VOZ still did MEL/ADL/AVV/MEL runs 4 times a day yesterday and once today.

Flies MEL/SYD at lunch time today for a PR party with Branson.

Friday she departs for LAX.


VH-VPD is flying BNE/BNE today for an air-to-air shoot. ETA over Sydney Harbour today at 11.30am.

[Steve V]

Heads Up
V-Oz 9090 just flew over the Hunter Valley (12.30PM) heading south.

[Pat Stevens]

Yeah, it's been doing circuits over the Central Coast and is now doing the same over Sydney. Just flew over Eastern Suburbs at around 2500 ft - now heading north again.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

The magazine's photographer, Paul Sadler, just did an air-to-air photo shoot of VPD over the Hunter, Central Coast and Sydney's east from a Raytheon Premier. I hear the results are awesome! :cool:

[Marty H]

The magazine's photographer, Paul Sadler, just did an air-to-air photo shoot of VOZ over the Hunter, Central Coast and Sydney's east from a Raytheon Premier. I hear the results are awesome! :cool:


Its not VOZ it's VPD, VOZ is on the ground here at gate F12 in MEL.

[Michael Mak]

Does anyone know if VOZ or VPD will be operating the inaugural flight on Friday?

[Matt_L]

Slightly off topic with relation to this thread, but ive heard word that V Australia has gotten permission to use "velocity" as call sign and will be doing this and is eventually seeking to use "aurora" as their final call sign.

Apparently VEE-OZZ was hard to pronounce:D

[Radi K]

Does anyone know if VOZ or VPD will be operating the inaugural flight on Friday?

VOZ - is there any board members on the first flight on Friday?

[Lukas M]

At Melbourne Yesterday..
http://i623.photobucket.com/albums/tt316/A320fan/IMG_1536.jpg



http://i623.photobucket.com/albums/tt316/A320fan/IMG_1544.jpg

[Adam G]

VOZ - is there any board members on the first flight on Friday?


I am Radi - are you going across for a few days as well?

[Andrew McLaughlin]

What time does she depart?

[Tim Bowrey]

What time does she depart?

Sometime around 3pm accoriding to V Aus website. Arrives in LAX about 10am.

Its odd that Sydneyairport.com doesnt have it.

March 1st its departing aat 9:30 and arrives 4:30pm. Then, March 20 when they say they start regular flying its 8:30pm with a 4:30pm arrival. Thats weird.

[Michael Morrison]

Sometime around 3pm accoriding to V Aus website. Arrives in LAX about 10am.

Its odd that Sydneyairport.com doesnt have it.

March 1st its departing aat 9:30 and arrives 4:30pm. Then, March 20 when they say they start regular flying its 8:30pm with a 4:30pm arrival. Thats weird.

Perhaps by leaving at 3pm they can hope to be on the 6pm news!

[Malcolm Parker]

perhaps time change from DST either in Australia or the USA

[Michael Morrison]

They will be using the Malaysian Airline lounge in Sydney and the Alaskan lounge in Los Angeles.

Any news if they may build a clubhouse in Sydney for VS/VA/DJ?

[John P]

How about this one..... on the way home tonight, just heard a couple of people taking about the launch party in Sydney tonight. Seems that someone overbooked the party to the tune of several hundred guests and apparently these people had been booted from the guest list earlier today (they were actually quite pi$$ed!!).

I hope that they (V Aussie) can manage their aircraft loading a bit better than this.

Cheers
John

[Michael Morrison]

Some more pics here of the interior of the new VA bird.

http://www.watoday.com.au/travel/travel-feature/bransons-new-baby-how-v-australia-measures-up-20090213-86oz.html

There is a harbour shot at the end

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Some more pics here of the interior of the new VA bird.

http://www.watoday.com.au/travel/travel-feature/bransons-new-baby-how-v-australia-measures-up-20090213-86oz.html

There is a harbour shot at the end

The shot over the harbour is one of the ones we got during the a2a shoot on Tuesday....glad they're getting it out there so soon!

[Grahame Hutchison]

Arrived back from YMML today ...

VH-VOZ VA9092 26/02/2009 12:54 V Australia B777-3ZG(ER) <== Melbourne-Sydney

[Malcolm Parker]

Currently sitting over the eastern end of the airport aprons. Looked very nice in the morning sunrise on the way to work

[Michael Mak]

1503: Vee-Ozz 1 requested Clearance Delivery on 133.8.

1516: Pushback is approved.

1525: Taxi commenced to Runway 16R via taxiways Golf, Alpha then Alpha 1.

1528: Transferred to Tower 120.5, 'congratulations and have a great flight!'

1533: Vee-Ozz 1 is cleared for take off from Runway 16R.
'This is Sydney Tower and it is my honour for the very first time to say - Vee-Ozz 1 you are cleared for take off Runway 16R.'

1535: Transferred to Departures 123.0

[Sarah C]

Just took off - I don't know where it started to roll but it took a very long time to rotate.

[Greg McDonald]

From News.com.au:

V Australia launches its first Boeing 777-300ER aircraft non-stop between Australia and the US today, providing travellers with more flight options.

The airline will fly to Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Portland and Seattle from all Australian capital cities and other towns such as Albury, Canberra and Launceston.

Must have seriously improved and lengthened a few airports and runways around the place!!!:eek::eek:

They wonder why some journalists are thought of as w**kers:mad:

[Kurt A]

A NEW ERA FOR TRANS PACIFIC TRAVEL

Friday, February 27, 2009, Sydney, AUSTRALIA: Australia’s newest international airline, V Australia, takes to the skies today with the first commercial service departing Sydney, Australia at 3pm.

On board the inaugural flight will be the airline Group’s co-founders, Sir Richard Branson and Brett Godfrey, as well as some special Australian celebrity Guests, including singer Marcia Hines, Getaway presenter Catriona Rowntree and Australian rock band, the Potbelleez.

The historic launch of V Australia flights was made possible following the signing of an open skies agreement concluded between the Federal Governments of Australia and the United States of America 12 months ago.

V Australia lobbied for permission to operate trans-Pacific flights in order to open up travel between the two countries and provide an innovative, affordable and high quality flying option, in the same way Virgin Blue has done domestically in Australia and Pacific Blue has done on the trans-Tasman and domestically in New Zealand.

Virgin Group Chairman, Sir Richard Branson, said, “Almost ten years ago the Virgin Blue team revolutionised travel in this market, they bought back a sense of fun and flair to flying again and made travel much more accessible thanks to its low fares. It’s a true example of the benefits of competition and the Virgin Blue and V Australia teams who have already done a wonderful job of bringing fares to the USA tumbling down and I have no doubt they will continue to do so.

“This will bring tangible benefits to the tourism industry and to businesses at a time when it is most needed,” he said.

V Australia’s launch flight will operate from Sydney to Los Angeles, with three flights a week from today, ramping up to daily from March 20. The carrier will also launch direct flights between Brisbane and Los Angeles and Melbourne and Los Angeles and recently confirmed it has set its sights on launching its next route from Australia to South Africa.

Chief Executive Brett Godfrey said, “We are launching a new contemporary international airline for Australia. Today's flight to Los Angeles marks the start of a new era for Australian's who travel long distances overseas.

“A great deal of thought and consideration has gone in to every detail of our new airline. We are very proud of V Australia and we believe that today's first Guests and those that follow will have their expectations surpassed. From 3pm today, the team at V Australia will raise the standard of trans-Pacific travel, by offering a level of style, comfort and of course affordability, not seen before.”
Brett Godfrey added, “We are well aware that in economic times like this, it is essential to provide stimulus through new business ventures which encourages optimism and new opportunities for other businesses around us and we will do our absolute utmost to support Australian tourism and business travel, both here and in the United States of America.”

The three class boutique style airline offers 33 Business Class lie-flat beds, 40 Premium Economy club seats and 288 economy seats. The suite of in-flight products includes two in-flight bars, a female toilet complete with piped music and Australian icons featured on subtle wallpaper murals. All seats on the brand new 777-300ER aircraft offer personal state-of-the-art seat back entertainment with user friendly touch screen options and seat to seat 'chat' or competition connectivity.

V Australia is the only carrier to operate the economically and environmentally efficient Boeing 777 aircraft on the long haul trans-Pacific route.

Joining Richard, Brett, invited Guests and paying passengers, on today’s launch flight is a group of 80 Virgin Blue Group team members taking advantage of the airline’s staff travel policy to be part of the inaugural service and share in the in-flight excitement. The airline last night hosted a charity fundraising launch event in Sydney for corporate, industry and travel agents to raise funds for the Red Cross Fire and Flood Appeals as well as raise awareness of the new services and will do the same again on arrival in Hollywood.

V Australia fares start from $975* for a return economy flight, $1999* for a Premium Economy return flight and $5999* for a Business Class return flight.

-vOz

[Michael Mak]

Just took off - I don't know where it started to roll but it took a very long time to rotate.

Sarah, it started to roll from Alpha 1.

[Grahame Hutchison]

Off she goes ....

VH-VOZ (http://cdn-www.airliners.net/aviation-photos/middle/7/2/4/1484427.jpg) VA0001 27/02/2009 15:35 V Australia B777-3ZG(ER) <== Sydney-Los Angeles

ACARS mode: 2 Aircraft reg: .VH-VOZ
Message label: 24 Block id: 2 Msg. no: M07A
Flight id: VA0001
Message content:-
TKO01VAU1 /27270451 YSSYKLAX
8955,1,1270,1266,----,2R091203,N,N,N,Y,VIP
SHL,582167 ,131298,LTR,REFUEL
,,,LTR,REFUEL
,,,LTR,REFUEL
15 ,10 ,21 ,8 ,,
-------------------------------------[27/02/2009 15:51]

[Chris Primmer]

Hey spotters, as you can see I was lucky enough to get down there for it first service.


ChrisP

[Seth Jaworski]

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewqueued_b.php?id=2367947

[David Henderson]

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewqueued_b.php?id=2367947

crackin photo

[Sarah C]

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewqueued_b.php?id=2367947

As always Seth, you manage to get the perfect shot :cool: Gotta love that wing flex!

[Michael Mak]

http://www.jetphotos.net/viewqueued_b.php?id=2367947
Great photo Seth. I agree with Sarah, the wing flex is amazing!

[Sam Chui]

Here is VH-VOZ departure from another perspective at 1000 feet.

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/SYDD4008.jpg

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/SYDD4001.jpg

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/SYDD4003.jpg

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/SYDD4005.jpg

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/SYDD4007.jpg

[Tim Bowrey]

We all saw you up there Sam and once again you supply head-shakingly spectacular photos(if thats a word):confused:. Top work mate!

[Marty H]

here is vh-voz departure from another perspective at 1000 feet.

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/sydd4008.jpg

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/sydd4001.jpg

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/sydd4003.jpg

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/sydd4005.jpg

http://www.samchuiphotos.com/sydd4007.jpg

stunning;)

[Sam Chui]

We all saw you up there Sam and once again you supply head-shakingly spectacular photos(if thats a word):confused:. Top work mate!

It wasn't the best coz I haven't done helicopter photos for over a year so I was a bit rusty for the VOZ 777, photos were better for Qantas A380 and other later (as it climb very slow and steady) Camera also malfunctioned on long focusing...:cool:
I Was hoping a 34L departure but consider the sun came out for the departure and a beautiful afternoon, there's nothing I could complaint about it.

[Rhys Xanthis]

wow, amazing photo's sam! keep up the good work!

[Matt_L]

Nice angle on this one.

Unfortunately heat haze marred the quality.

Ah well- theres always Sam to take the shots when you need him :)

Well done again Sam!

[Jamie D]

awesome looking airplane and some awesome photos by all!

[Dan Hammond]

Excellent photos guys well done

[Dan Collins]

Absolutely amazing photos there. Loved all of them. Congrats to V Australia on starting their services.

Interesting they want to change their callsign to Velocity, and then to Aurora? I can understand using Velocity, but does anyone know the significance of Aurora?

Dan

[Sarah C]

Awesome shots as always Sam - even with problems, he manages to snap absolutely amazing photos........I am jealous! ;):p

[Sam Chui]

Thanks guys. I did a rough edit on the posted photos here, I realized the were a bit overexposed but I will post some more photos from yesterday once I sorted them all out.

Cheers

Sam

[Micheil Keegan]

Sam wasn't the only one up there...

http://members.optusnet.com.au/mdkeegan/VH-VOZ.jpg

although its not mine :p

[Sam Chui]

Very nice photos John, via Micheil ;):p

[James Smith]

From my notes taken from this Board in 2007, V Australia were originally going to use "Kanga" as their callsign.

[Stephen Harris]

Well done Sam, I love the photo of the wing flex

[James Herbert]

Brilliant photo's Sam.

Lovin' the cleaning up pics...................;)

[Peter Casey]

Saw this morning the V Australia flying low over the Hills area, looked very good, heading towards West Pymble..

Rgds

Peter

[Will H]

Anyone by any chance have photos of the people and buses at the edge of the runway near OZ's rotation point?

[Seth Jaworski]

Yes, I have one with half the media bus visible. I also have one with all the V Oz employees waving from the fenceline.

[Andrew McLaughlin]

Yes, I have one with half the media bus visible. I also have one with all the V Oz employees waving from the fenceline.

Likewise...something tells me I should've been on that bus... if only I'd read the email carefully enough... :mad:

[Stephen Brown]

Likewise...something tells me I should've been on that bus... if only I'd read the email carefully enough... :mad:

WHAT!?!?!?!? You missed out on a media junket? I'm starting to loose my faith in you there Mr M!

[Andrew McLaughlin]

WHAT!?!?!?!? You missed out on a media junket? I'm starting to loose my faith in you there Mr M!

I know...I know...I'll try to do better next time Mr B. :p

[Robert S]

Okay am I missing something here... where are the trip reports? Or were there no board members on the flight (which seems pretty unlikely)?

[Michael Morrison]

Robert, there are a few trip reports on Flyertalk and frequentflyer.com.au already.

Reports have been quite posiitve.

[Shameel Kumar]

Okay am I missing something here... where are the trip reports? Or were there no board members on the flight (which seems pretty unlikely)?

From what I read, there were a few board members on the inaugural flight, but they've chosen to spend a week or two over there, so that would explain the delay in trip reports.

[Grahame Hutchison]

VPD in Sydney today ....

ACARS mode: 2 Aircraft reg: .VH-VPD
Message label: H1 Block id: 1 Msg. no: D04A
Flight id: VA9090
Message content:-
#DFBACM01ACM245ASVH-VPD VAU9090 YBBN YSSY030309 4ER0501

[Mike W]

Airfleets have VH-VPE listed as non "ER". Surely this is incorrect...?

Boeing 777 - MSN 37939
Airline V Australia
Status : Active
Registration : VH-VPE
Airline V Australia
Country : Australia
Date : 2009 - Codes VA VAU Callsign : VEE-OZ

General information & flightlog
Serial number 37939 LN:764

Type 777-3ZG

It has the first two as 777-3ZGER models.

http://www.airfleets.net/ficheapp/plane-b777-37939.htm

[Grahame Hutchison]

Mike, CASA have the registration as a B777-3ZGER

http://www.16right.com/GetRego.php?Mark=VPE&Rhname=&Type=&submit=Search

[Matt_L]

Evening all,

VH-VPD just picked up on radar taxxying 16R as VAU1 at 955pm.

[Grahame Hutchison]

VH-VPD VA0001 04/03/2009 22:03 V Australia B777-3ZG(ER) <== Sydney-Los Angeles

ACARS mode: 2 Aircraft reg: .VH-VPD
Message label: 24 Block id: 1 Msg. no: M05A
Flight id: VA0001
Message content:-
TKO01VAU1 /04041126 YSSY KLAX
8956,2,1202,1197,----,,Y,N,N,N,
SHL,0630155 ,102466,LTR,REFUEL
,,,LTR,REFUEL
,,,LTR,REFUEL
R4 ,14 ,,,,
-------------------------------------[04/03/2009 22:26]

[Mike W]

Mike, CASA have the registration as a B777-3ZGER

http://www.16right.com/GetRego.php?Mark=VPE&Rhname=&Type=&submit=Search

Thanks Mate. Thought as much. Next time I'll go straight to 16right :)

[Matthew Hogg]

I notice that Seattle is now in their booking screen however it shows Alaskan Airlines connections or do they plan to fly to SEA non stop?


I doubt it would be Alaskan, Alaskan currently codeshare with Qantas.

[Daniel F]

I doubt it would be Alaskan, Alaskan currently codeshare with Qantas.

So? What has Qantas codesharing with Alaskan got to do with Alaskan providing connections to another airline?

[Michael Morrison]

I doubt it would be Alaskan, Alaskan currently codeshare with Qantas.

It is indeed Alaskan.

V Australia also use the Alaskan lounge at LAX for their pax.

[Peter Agatsiotis]

VH-VPD operating VUA2 is at FL260 on approach to SYD.

[Peter Agatsiotis]

Sorry, make that VAU2.

[Grahame Hutchison]

VH-VPD VA0002 08/03/2009 08:01 V Australia B777-3ZG(ER) <== Los Angeles-Sydney

[Marty H]

VOZ must be doing today's launch flight from BNE.

[Mark Howarth]

I think the launch flight for BNE is next month??

[Marty H]

I think the launch flight for BNE is next month??


Yep opps a month early, hows that for not being able to control my excitement.

[Grahame Hutchison]

And back out again tonight .....

VH-VPD VA0001 08/03/2009 21:04 V Australia B777-3ZG(ER) <== Sydney-Los Angeles

On the ground for 12-13 hours today, it's a hard act to start up a new airline.

[Tim Bowrey]

When is VPD getting its name? And anyone know what it will be named?

[James Herbert]

When is VPD getting its name? And anyone know what it will be named?

Here she is at the day apron about 11am this morning....No name yet....

Beautiful looking plane............

http://img300.imageshack.us/img300/5592/dscf1427.jpg

[andrew sattler]

Hi guys.
Does anyone by any chance know the selcal code for VH-VPD please?

Andrew.

[Matt_L]

Hi guys.
Does anyone by any chance know the selcal code for VH-VPD please?

Andrew.

Sure its AJ-KR

[andrew sattler]

Matt,thank you very much mate.:)

Andrew.

[David Inskip]

Hey all i have to say this is a really nice looking bird.... a few questions i got as i am new to this stuff.... what call-sign is she going under cause i am reading all different things from different forums and contacts!

I have herd Vee-Oz, Velocity, and Kanga.... i would like to know what to listen out for.....

Cheers Dave

[Steve V]

I've only ever heard them using V-Oz.