problem is that DJ/SQ offers nothing new over QF (or QF/MH)... JB is creating a formidible global network, for sure, but it's nothing that I can't get with QF... I don't know what incentives there are that are supposed to be convincing me to switch??

300+ more routes, lounge access and the singapore service? You dont understand the alliance enough, wait till its all done. 

A lot of people prefer Singapore Airlines planes and service over Qantas... and now you have a domestic airline you can accrue your points into when you fly with Singapore. Essentially, the reason why Qantas is so strong in Australia is because it has a Frequent Flyer program that accumulates points for both domestic and international trips. Now Virgin has that too. 

My point is that this alliance isn't opening up a whole region for me or anything... I have my travel invested in QF and Oneworld, and there needs to be something really different to convince me to ditch my loyalty and move... 

Sure, SQ is great, and I love flying with them (especially in Y), but I'm questioning what VA are doing to win over the business market apart from essentially acting as a travel agent... Frequent Flyer is a big thing, sure, but Oneworld already cover those 300+ routes and offer all the perks...

Will still be interesting, and there can only be positive outcomes. But what is actually new here for business travellers? It's not making my travel easier or reforming it...

Until Virgin can get seat comfort equal to QF I'll keep flying QF in preference domestically and with late booking QF is (in my expreience) mostly cheaper, so that still pushes me QF internationally.

Last time I went Qantas the seats were no more comfortable then Virgin...

big mistake for MH to partner with QF! QF has no aim to be hospitable to their onboard guests! MH have award winning cabin crew which are graceful and courteous, Qantas cabin crew are known to bark choices of meals and walk like elephants down the aisles. Yes, they might be good at safety, but I don't think MH flight attendants would fail a safety test or emergency evacuation.

Agreed with Jack. The Singapore service surpasses the QF service by a country mile. I think the frequent flyer program has a strong hold over QF regulars. That must be the only thing. How anybody can put up with old planes with issues and poor service puzzles me.

Is it really likely MH will join oneworld?  I thought they were close to becoming a Skyteam member, especially now that CI and CZ have joined and GA will next year. They are already closely aligned with KL,AF and GA

QF is obviously the market dominator in the Australian business travel market and drives incredible loyalty, however, there is no doubt that SQ product and service consistency is a long way ahead of QF and to be fair most airlines with the exception of airlines like CX QR and OZ

The Virgin Group know exactly where they are going in their global strategy - the key was to get the various brands into their various markets USA, Australia, NZ and the Pacific and create strong local market branding (what Virgin have always done so well)  and then link it all together with Virgin Atlantic. 

The Virgin Blue that exists today will be completely overhauled to win over the Australian business travel market - and become a true competitor to QF and to form a very strong niche global alliance

rcooper: yes, MH will be joining oneworld, Qantas is even 'sponsoring' their membership application.

interesting one - thanks for confirming that