MEDIA RELEASE The Hon Anthony Albanese MP Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government 27 February 2009 AA061/2009

V AUSTRALIA TAKES VIRGIN FLIGHT TO THE US Today I was pleased to be part of the celebrations for V Australia's inaugural flight from Sydney to Los Angeles, marking a new, more competitive era on routes between Australia and the United States. The launch of V Australia will provide travellers with greater choice, put downward pressure on ticket prices and create around 1,000 new jobs. It is also a welcome vote of confidence in the Australian aviation industry, particularly during these challenging economic times. Last year more than 1.9 million passengers flew between our two countries, making the US the third most popular destination for Australian travellers. The entry of V Australia onto the trans-Pacific route was only made possible after the Rudd Labor Government successfully negotiated an Open Skies' agreement with the United States shortly after coming to office. Previously new carriers were restricted to four services per week to a limited number of destinations. V Australia will initially operate three direct services per week between Sydney and Los Angeles, with plans to increase to daily services from 21 March 2009.  It is also expected to begin operations from Brisbane in April and Melbourne in September. Media Contacts Jeff Singleton ( Mr Albanese's Office ) 0410 476 890   URL: http://www.minister.infrastructure.gov.au/aa/releases/2009/February/AA061_2009.htm