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VARA began operations in 1963 as Carnarvon Air Taxis, evolving over the decades to become Skywest Airlines, which focused on regional services within Western Australia. In April 2013, Virgin Australia Holdings acquired Skywest, rebranding it as Virgin Australia Regional Airlines to integrate regional services into its broader network.
In August 2024, VARA announced an order for eight Embraer E190-E2 jets, with deliveries expected to commence in October 2025. This move aims to modernize the fleet and enhance fuel efficiency.
VARA’s network focuses on connecting Perth with key regional centers in Western Australia, including:
Additionally, VARA operates interstate flights to destinations such as:
The airline also provides charter services supporting the mining and resource sectors in Western Australia.
VARA operates its aircraft in an all-economy class configuration, focusing on providing essential services for regional travelers. Passengers can expect:
Seating: Standard economy seats with adequate legroom suitable for short to medium-haul flights.
In-Flight Services: Complimentary snacks and beverages are offered on most flights. In-flight entertainment options may be limited, reflecting the regional nature of the services.
VARA participates in Virgin Australia’s Velocity Frequent Flyer program, allowing passengers to earn and redeem points on regional flights. Benefits of the program include:
Point Accumulation: Members earn points based on fare type and distance traveled.
Status Tiers: The program offers Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers, each providing escalating benefits such as priority boarding, additional baggage allowance, and lounge access.
Recent updates to the program include the introduction of new tiers, “Forever Gold” and “Platinum Plus,” recognizing long-term loyalty and offering exclusive benefits.
Velocity Gold and Platinum members, as well as eligible fare holders, have access to Virgin Australia’s domestic lounges, including the Perth lounge, which serves as a key facility for VARA passengers. These lounges offer amenities such as:
Fleet Modernization: The introduction of Embraer E190-E2 aircraft is part of a strategy to operate more fuel-efficient planes.
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): In March 2025, Virgin Australia partnered with Viva Energy to source SAF for flights departing from Proserpine, Queensland, marking a significant step towards reducing carbon emissions.
Operational Efficiencies: Continuous efforts to optimize flight operations and ground procedures aim to minimize environmental impact.
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