FlyPelican inks Virgin Australia Lounge partnership

Virgin Australia is opening its lounges to FlyPelican passengers in Sydney and Canberra. Booking an eligible FlyPelican fare nabs you gratis entry, while other ticket types allow for paid access at the door.

This kicks off from 13 December 2021. Here’s what you need for lounge access as a FlyPelican passenger.

Virgin Australia Lounge access for FlyPelican

If you’ve booked a Pelican Corporate or Pelican Flexible ticket, Virgin Australia Lounge access is free. That’s available in both Sydney and Canberra.

Lounge entry doesn’t come included with Pelican Flyer or Pelican Saver fares. Instead, you may be able to purchase entry at the door on the day you fly. This costs $65 per person, and is subject to space availability.

Normally, paid entry to the Virgin Australia Lounge is restricted to the airline’s own passengers. But FlyPelican confirms that this is now available to its own customers on those lower-priced tickets.

It’s worth noting that Velocity Frequent Flyer status doesn’t get you through the door here. Velocity Gold and Platinum members are treated like any other passenger on FlyPelican. This means either booking an eligible FlyPelican fare to enter the lounge, or paying $65 at the door. The same is true of Virgin Australia Lounge members, and all others who’d normally qualify for complimentary access.

Lounge privileges for FlyPelican passengers are on departure only. These perks also apply just in Sydney and Canberra. These are the only two cities that are both served by FlyPelican, and home to a Virgin Australia lounge.

Earning Velocity Points with FlyPelican

As before, travellers can earn Velocity Points on FlyPelican flights. These accrue at the following rates.

Velocity Points are normally awarded within seven days of travel. Just remember to link your Velocity membership number when you book.

If your points don’t appear promptly, you can submit a claim. With FlyPelican, claims must be made within 30 days of travel, so don’t delay.

Also, Velocity Frequent Flyer members can’t earn Status Credits or Eligible Sectors with the regional carrier.

Summing up

In pleasing news, Virgin Australia’s lounges now welcome FlyPelican passengers. From Sydney, the regional carrier offers direct services to Cobar, Mudgee and Taree. Out of Canberra, it serves both Newcastle and Port Macquarie.

Overall, it’s great to see lounge options expanding for domestic travellers. The deal also follows Virgin Australia’s recent tie-up with Link Airways on the Sydney-Canberra route.