Virgin offers quick way home for Aussies facing restrictions

Virgin Australia has waived change fees and fare differences for Australians wanting to head home before domestic travel restrictions are introduced on Tuesday. Western Australia and South Australia have joined Tasmania and the Northern Territory in closing their borders and Virgin says it will work to re-accommodate passengers booked to depart on Virgin Australia and Tigerair flights on or before March 27. They can change to a flight on or before Tuesday by presenting at the airline’s check-in counters or via their contact centers. READ: Emirates leaves lifelines for passengers as it cuts most passenger services. Tigerair passengers unable to get a seat on the low-cost carrier will be rebooked on a Virgin Australia flight without additional cost. “We want guests to know that during these uncertain times, we’re committed to getting them home,’’ a Virgin spokesperson said. “Whether they’re overseas or interstate, we’re waiving change fees and fare differences to get them safely home before travel and border restrictions come into effect.” The arrangements are in addition to waivers offered to passengers who were due to depart before June 30. Both Virgin and Qantas are reducing flights as a result of the restrictions and a warning by Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison to avoid all but non-essential travel.