Alitalia and Virgin Australia have expanded their codeshare agreement to include 11 new destinations within Italy as well as additional ports in Australia.

The deal means Virgin’s Australian customers can now earn credit status and Velocity frequent flyer points on flights from Rome to Bari, Bologna, Catania, Florence, Genoa, Lamezia Terme ,  Naples, Palermo, Reggio Calabria , Turin  and Venice.

Alitalia customers will be able to codeshare on Virgin Australia services from Sydney to Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth, Ballina, Coffs Harbour, Hobart, Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast.

“We are excited about the opportunity to encourage Alitalia customers to visit Australia and travel beyond Sydney through their expanded codeshare on Virgin Australia services,”  said Virgin Australia general manager alliances Chris Squires.

Both airlines count Gulf carrier Etihad as a major investor and the new Italian codeshares are in addition to existing arrangements on services  from Abu Dhabi to Rome Fiumicino and Milan Malpensa.

The agreements provide for full reciprocity across both networks, including lounge access, priority service and an increased baggage allowances for eligible members.

Virgin recently resumed its three times weekly services to Abu Dhabi after completing a refit of its Boeing 777 fleet with a top-tier business class product, which includes an inflight bar, and a refreshed premium economy cabin.

Mr Squires said the expanded codeshare relationship would make it easier for Australians to do business or visit friends and family in Italy.