Virgin Australia will add nine Boeing 737-800 aircraft into its mainline fleet from October in preparation for an expected increase in domestic travel as vaccination rates rise and interstate borders open downunder. The airline said the jets were planned for operation over the peak summer season to accommodate expected holiday travel, with the aim for them to be in the air by mid-February. Virgin Australia chief executive Jayne Hrdlicka said the additional aircraft reflected the airline’s commitment to its customers, team members and Australia’s aviation sector into the long term, despite the significant challenges presented by COVID-19 and associated border closures. READ: Qatar Airways Privilege Club offers great deals “We at Virgin Australia are crystal clear that the underlying consumer desire for travel is strong,” she said. “While our recent efforts have been directed toward adapting to and managing through a very difficult few months for communities and businesses throughout the country, we’ve also maintained a consistent focus on our strategy and medium-term growth opportunities. “These extra aircraft are an important part of our planning and ensure we’re ready to ramp up flying and meet the pent-up demand for domestic travel as soon as the opportunity presents itself.” Ms Hrdlicka said the additional aircraft would bring Virgin Australia’s total mainline fleet to 77 and support hundreds of jobs across the business. “With this extra fleet capacity, we will be well-positioned to reach our target share of 33 percent of the domestic market and service the destinations that our customers want with the frequency they expect,” she said. Virgin Australia has also started planning for the mid-2023 arrival of its first Boeing 737 MAX 10 aircraft, which will deliver greater operational efficiencies and enhanced product and design features for customers and the environment.