Virgin Blue figures released

LOW-COST Australian airline Virgin Blue has reported a net loss of £4.1 million, or AU$11 million, for the financial period ending March 31.

The airline, owned by Virgin chairman Sir Richard Branson, was launched on August 31 last year.

Chief executive Brett Godferry said: “This is an exceptional result and we are delighted, given we are in start-up phase and facing intense competitive pressures, a falling currency and Gulf War aviation fuel prices.”

* Virgin Blue is to start a new daily service between Sydney and Melbourne on July 15.