Following the earlier announcement that Pacific Blue will cease flying New Zealand domestic routes, The Virgin Blue Group announced the second phase of its network review with the introduction of Airbus A330-200 aircraft for its domestic network and an overhaul of its international long haul network.

As part of the review, V Australia will withdraw from its loss making Boeing 777-300 services to South Africa and Phuket.

"As a minor player on the African route the prospects of achieving a return are remote," said John Borghetti, Virgin Blue Group Chief Executive Officer.

The two Airbus A330-200 aircraft will be introduced in May 2011 and "will operate services between Perth and the east coast of Australia enabling Virgin Blue to grow available capacity, especially at peak times, extending the airline’s appeal to business travellers," Mr Borghetti said.

From February 2011, Virgin Blue will consolidate its international network to two strategic hubs in Los Angeles and Abu Dhabi providing a gateway to a truly international network through partnerships. This is part of the strategic partnership with Etihad also announced today which provides the Virgin Blue Group seamless access to the Middle East; United Kingdom; Europe; Africa and Asia.

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