Virgin offers 20 cent fares. . . .From AAP. .22jan02
VIRGIN Blue is offering Ansett frequent fliers 20 cent airfares to attend the Ansett creditors' meeting in Melbourne next week.
In a publicity ploy intensifying Australia's cut-throat aviation price war, Virgin will make available 60 seats from six destinations to Ansett frequent fliers who will pay 10 cents plus taxes and levies for the trip each way.
Virgin Blue spokeswoman Amanda Bolger said the offer was a chance for Ansett frequent fliers to attend the creditors meeting on January 29 and "put in their two bobs worth for two bob".
"Virgin Blue does not have its own frequent flier program as we question the worth of existing programs," Ms Bolger said.
"(They) are currently under review by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission, and rarely deliver anything but frustration and disenchantment.
"We believe real loyalty is inspired by long-term sustainable low fares and unbeatable customer service."
The offer is available to Ansett frequent fliers with a minimum of 25,000 points, the average amount required by Ansett for a return domestic flight.
In a statement released today, Virgin Blue said the offer was a good chance for people who feared their Ansett frequent flier points were worthless.
Ms Bolger said Virgin Blue was surprised Ansett customers had not been given a chance to redeem points during recent months on unsold seats.
The 20 cent fares are from Sydney, Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane, Launceston and Canberra and can be accessed on the Virgin Blue website at <a href="http://www.virginblue.com.au" target="_blank">www.virginblue.com.au</a> before 4pm on January 25.
Those who secure the special flights will be notified within 24 hours.
Passengers can return the same day or stay over in Melbourne at their own expense.