Virgin Australia Suspends Flights to Perth

Brisbane 15 JUNE 2011: The Virgin Australia Group of Airlines will today suspend flights to and from Perth due to the forecast of ash plume due in the area from 1.00pm Perth local time today.

Group Executive Operations Sean Donohue said the decision to suspend services was made in consultation with the Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre and Bureau of Meteorology.

“The ash plume is forecast to be at a lower band level of approximately 15,000 feet and with this in mind, Virgin Australia will suspend all services into and out of Perth as a precautionary measure.

“Safety is and always will be our highest priority. It is a fundamental of the Virgin Australia group of airline’s business. Our Safety Management System is an extremely robust set of principles and standards.

“We are in the process of advising our Guests and will monitor the situation throughout the day.

“Additional information will be posted onto our website,” Mr Donohue said.

ENDS

Media Enquiries: Melissa Thomson M: 0408 660 891