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Virgin Australia is turning 25 and, true to form, it’s celebrating not with cake and candles but with a sky-high sale designed to tempt Australians back into the air. Fares start at an eye-watering $49.

It’s hard to believe it’s been a quarter of a century since Richard Branson’s bold red jets took to our skies, determined to shake up the cosy duopoly of Australian aviation. With the airline firmly embedded as a household name, Virgin is marking the milestone by giving its passengers the gift of cheap travel.

The Sale That’s More Party than Promotion

Forget goodie bags; Virgin’s birthday bash offers Sydney-to-Ballina one-way seats for $49, the price that makes a road trip look positively extravagant. Melbourne to Launceston for $65? Sydney to the Goldie or Sunshine Coast at the same rate? That’s cheaper than a dinner for two at your local pub, and the view is infinitely better.

Those wanting to venture further afield aren’t left out. Brisbane to Port Vila is yours for a $439 return, and Bali from Melbourne or the Gold Coast clocks in at a $449 return, which is barely more than the cost of your airport parking if you’re not careful.

The Whitsundays beckon from $79 for sun-seekers, while those hankering for something more rugged can snap up Melbourne to Uluru from $99. Even Adelaide to Perth is a mere $179, cheaper than some taxi rides from the city after midnight.

A Silver Jubilee with a Golden Edge

Chief Marketing Officer Libby Minogue says it’s all about thanking loyal Australians who’ve chosen Virgin across the decades.

“There’s no better way to mark our birthday than by offering great-value fares across our domestic and short-haul international network starting from just $49 one-way*. Whether you’re chasing sunshine, visiting family or discovering somewhere new, now’s the time to plan your next adventure.”

The sale runs until 11:59 pm AEST, Sunday 31 August 2025, with travel windows stretching from 14 October 2025 to 25 June 2026. And if you fancy a bit more leg-room with your celebration, Economy X seats are 25% off during the birthday sale, the perfect gift for your knees.

Points, Perks and Party Favours

Of course, it wouldn’t be Virgin without Velocity Frequent Flyer members earning points and status credits on every birthday bargain. Those intent on climbing the frequent flyer ladder will find this sale a handy boost. For new members keen to sign up, details are provided on the Velocity Frequent Flyer.

For the rest of us, it’s a chance to swap winter chills for island thrills or finally tick Queenstown off the bucket list without needing to remortgage the house.

The Bigger Picture

This sale isn’t just another round of discounted flights. It’s a statement that Virgin is here to stay after weathering its own turbulence over the years. Surviving administration, a global pandemic, and the cut-throat world of Australian aviation is no small feat. Reaching 25 years – and celebrating by making flying accessible is worth a toast, preferably at 38,000 feet with a glass of bubbly.

So, if you’ve been waiting for a sign to book that long-delayed getaway, consider this your invitation. Virgin’s birthday party is on, and everyone’s welcome. But like all good parties, the best spots go quickly.