Virgin Australia has added 11 new Italian destinations through an expansion of the airline’s codeshare agreement with Italy’s national carrier, Alitalia.

Now on sale, the Virgin Australia codeshare on Alitalia has been extended to include flights from Rome on to Bari, Bologna, Catania, Florence, Genoa, Lamezia Terme, Naples, Palermo, Reggio Calabria, Turin and Venice.

These new codeshare routes are in addition to the existing Virgin Australia codeshare Alitalia services operating between Abu Dhabi and Rome Fiumicino, and Abu Dhabi and Milan Malpensa.

When travelling on these services, guests will earn Velocity Points and Status Credits, while Velocity Frequent Flyer members will enjoy full reciprocity across Alitalia’s network, including lounge access, priority service and an increased baggage allowances for eligible members.

Virgin Australia General Manager Alliances, Phil Squires said: “Our expanded codeshare relationship with Alitalia makes it easier for Australians to do business or visit friends and family in Italy.

“Virgin Australia customers now have access to 13 codeshare destinations across Italy from our Abu Dhabi gateway, providing more opportunities to travel seamlessly, earn Velocity Points and Status Credits, and enjoy lounge access.”

Virgin Australia’s three services each week between Sydney and Abu Dhabi using Boeing 777 aircraft feature the airline’s signature Business Class experience ‘The Business’, together with a new Business Class bar and lounge and refreshed Premium cabin.

Alitalia will also codeshare on Virgin Australia services from Sydney to Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth, Ballina, Coffs Harbour, Hobart, Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast.

“We are excited about the opportunity to encourage Alitalia customers to visit Australia and travel beyond Sydney through their expanded codeshare on Virgin Australia services,” Squires said.