By Roy Weavers

Incoming Virgin Blue chief executive, John Borghetti has signalled he will be targeting a variety of market segments as he steps into his new role.

Speaking at a press conference in Sydney, he said he will “target any market segment that makes sense for us”, including the business market. “I think the company is in great shape and is well poised to go to the next phase of development, it's all about growth, domestically and internationally.” 

Borghetti will replace chief executive Brett Godfrey from early May, although Godfrey will stay on hand to assist during the transition. Borghetti left his role as head of operations at Qantas 10 months ago and was quick to point out that he would not be commenting about his former employer.

During his time at Qantas he was responsible for the major revamp of Qantas’s airport lounges, aircraft interiors and staff training. He was looking forward to working with the Virgin team, including Sir Richard Branson.

“You have a company here that is now very much one of the  two major airlines in the market, has an amazing brand presence and a culture that is unbelievable. Apart from that it is a very financially robust company all you have to do is look at the results of last week and the results of other airlines in the region to see it is a well run company.”

Editors Comments: Dear Mr Borghetti, could you make one of your first jobs to look at increasing both your direct international and domestic flights to Cairns please, Qantas seems to be ignoring us but we know if you make additional capacity available for more 'bums on seats' the people will come. Many thanks.