They have a virtual monopoly on the corporate market. At the peak times of Monday morning and Friday evening seats can go for A$300-$A400 or more one way for an economy class seat on a 737 for a 55 minute flight.
Also the fact is that the Business lounge at CBR is practically an extension of the office from 5-7pm. Everyone you know is there.
Do any other airlines have an equivalent to CL? I assume the greater availability of private jets in the US rules it out there.
They've got just enough of an edge, plus the whole tie-in to the global Oneworld program. Our company's Chairman is a member of the CL, but AFAIK if I requested a Virgin flight that wouldn't be an issue.