Australians could benefit from cheaper airfares before Christmas if the government rethinks its decision to reject Qatar Airways’ bid for extra flights.
Two of the carrier’s heavy-hitters have appeared before a parliamentary committee probing what role Qantas played in the transport minister’s decision to knock back their application.
Qatar senior vice-president Matt Raos revealed the airline found out its bid was rejected via the media on July 10 and then received a letter 10 days later that was sent on July 14.
“We were surprised and shocked by the decision … to reject our application for additional flights to Australia,” Mr Raos told the hearing.
“Even more surprising was the government gave us no reason for rejecting our application, we really can’t understand why.”
But Mr Raos said the airline hadn’t given up hope of doubling its 28 flights per week and would be ready to deliver the extra services this year.
“We had plans to deploy those aircrafts well in advance, we have to make sure … aircrafts are aligned,” he said.
“We aim to operate before Christmas, we hope we manage to do that.”
Coalition senator Simon Birimingham remarked in response “that would be great news for travellers and our tourism sector”.
Qatar estimated the additional flights would add $3 billion of economic benefits to Australia, adding the Victorian government was predicting a second daily flight from Doha to Melbourne would create 900 jobs.
Transport Minister Catherine King has not elaborated on what “national interest” she used to deny the flights.
Qatar’s 28 flights compares to Emirates’ 84 weekly flights and Etihad’s 63.
Later on Wednesday, Qantas chairman Richard Goyder and CEO Vanessa Hudson will appear before the committee to address the mounting criticism.
The committee will use its power to summon former boss Alan Joyce when he lands back in Australia, having been unable to appear on Wednesday.
“He is entitled to do what he wants to do but he has got public responsibilities, I think, to front up and talk to the Australian people about what has happened here,” Home Affairs Minister Clare O’Neil told Seven’s Sunrise program.
Mr Goyder is facing growing calls to resign from pilots and shareholders.
Inquiry chair Nationals senator Bridget McKenzie did not say whether Mr Goyder should resign.
However she said the board had contributed to the airline’s loss in public standing.
“Our once great national carrier that we’re all proud to call the spirit of Australia’s reputation has been trashed and not just by the board but by the former CEO’s behaviour and perceived cosy relationship with the Albanese government,” she told ABC Radio.
The Australian Shareholders’ Association is the latest to add its voice to the call, with chief executive Rachel Waterhouse saying a slew of recent scandals meant his position was untenable.
By Alex Mitchell in Canberra
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