Update on Volcanic Ash Situation

BRISBANE 12 JUNE 2011: The Virgin Australia Group of Airlines will halt all domestic and international services into and out of Melbourne from 7.00pm tonight as a precautionary measure due to the ash plume from the eruption of Cordon Caulle in Southern Chile.

Virgin Australia Group Executive Operations Sean Donohue said the airline would suspend 34 domestic and one international service as safety to Guests, team members and aircraft remained the Group’s number one priority.

“We have been closely monitoring the situation all day. Safety is always our number one priority.

“We believe now this to be the best course of action to take,” Mr Donohue said.

The Virgin Australia Group is contacting affected guests.

Mr Donohue said the Group would continue assessing the plume situation throughout the evening and provide updates on the website – www.virginaustralia.com and to Guests via the airline’s Guest Contact Centre on 13 67 89.

ENDS

Media Enquiries: Melissa Thomson M: 0408 660 891