Velocity Points Upgrades to Qsuite Business Class: Virgin Australia's Bold Move for International Flyers
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Big news for frequent flyers chasing premium perks—Virgin Australia is shaking up the game with a powerful new way to fly in luxury on long-haul routes. Starting in June 2025, Velocity members can use their points to upgrade from economy to one of the most coveted business class experiences in the sky: Qatar Airways’ Qsuite.
From Economy to Qsuite—Yes, Really
That’s right. If you’ve ever been stuck in a cramped seat on a 15-hour flight and dreamt of a lie-flat bed, privacy doors, and fine dining—this is your chance. Virgin Australia, backed by a 25% investment from Qatar Airways, is rolling out leased Boeing 777 aircraft and cabin crew from Qatar to power its new Australia–Doha routes.
Since these jets don’t offer premium economy, a points upgrade from economy launches you straight into Qsuite business class. It’s a true “zero-to-hero” leap for savvy travellers who know how to squeeze every bit of value out of their Velocity Points.
Where and When You Can Upgrade
Upgrades can be requested up to 24 hours before departure starting July 1, 2025. Eligible flights include:
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Sydney–Doha (VA1/VA2): From June 12
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Brisbane–Doha (VA15/VA16): From June 19
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Perth–Doha (VA21/VA22): From June 25
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Melbourne–Doha (VA7/VA8): From December 1
To request an upgrade, you’ll need to book either an Economy Flex or Economy Choice fare. Velocity Gold, Platinum, and the upcoming Platinum Plus members can request upgrades from either fare type, while other members are limited to Flex fares.
Virgin hasn’t released the exact number of Velocity Points required for a Qsuite upgrade yet—but we expect it’ll be a hot-ticket redemption.
Why Doha Matters
This isn’t just about getting to Qatar. With seamless connections through Hamad International Airport, Virgin Australia and Qatar Airways are positioning Doha as a premier hub to reach Europe and the UK—taking direct aim at the Qantas/Emirates partnership and giving Singapore Airlines a run for its money.
Whether you're flying for business or pleasure, this partnership unlocks next-level opportunities for business class travel to Europe using Velocity Points.
Dining Perks at Doha Airport
Even if you don’t score a Qsuite upgrade, Virgin is adding more value for everyone. All Velocity members, including Red-tier, will receive a USD$20 (AUD$33) dining voucher for use at Doha’s Hamad International Airport.
Known as the ‘Dine on Us’ program, the voucher can be redeemed at over 60 restaurants—including Harrods Tea Room, Gordon Ramsay Burger, and Gordon Ramsay Street Pizza. It’s a welcome treat for travellers on long stopovers or waiting for their return leg to Australia.
Final Thoughts from Adam
Virgin Australia’s new partnership with Qatar Airways is more than just another route launch. It’s a bold move into long-haul international flying, and it’s packed with perks that savvy travellers can’t afford to ignore.
✅ Velocity Points upgrades to Qsuite business class
✅ Lounge-worthy dining vouchers at Doha Airport
✅ Seamless access to Europe and beyond
If you’ve been collecting Velocity Points, now’s the time to put them to work. And if you're still flying economy, why not learn how to fly business class for less—sometimes even cheaper than economy?