I think the Etihad deal should cover VBA into Europe. BA/Iberia are old-world national-flag carriers and may not fit with the Virgin approach. They are also both in the OneWorld alliance with QAN.
Assuming the Delta deal goes ahead (yes, no final decision has been made in the US, it was just a draft), the next thing VBA need is a better link into Asia. The main thing they have to offer is access to gates in the very crowded Aust airports.
Who might that be? Lets look at a few that aren't in OneWorld.
Singapore Airlines - owns 49% of Virgin Atlantic and has interest in Aust through Tiger (who could possibly choose to leave Aust and focus on Asia)
Malaysian - Want to build KL as a hub as an alternate to Singapore.
Korea - Asiana Airlines or Korean Air would probably like more airspaces into Aust. Asiana is with Star Alliance, Korean Air is alone.
Thai Air - part of Star Alliance, would have liked that VBA pulled out of Thai. Bangkok is a viable stopover to Europe and the rest of Asia
China - Air China & China Airlines, would like the links into Aust. State backing.
Also a chance with airlines in the Philppines, Vietnam, Indonesia ect.
All in all, a very interesting time we are in!
My opinion. DYOR. Enjoy.
VBA Price at posting:
43.0¢ Sentiment: LT Buy Disclosure: Held
