Qatar Airways intends to acquire a 25% equity stake in Virgin Australia from Bain Capital, the airlines announced on Tuesday. The move will drive increased competition in Australia, the companies said in a joint statement. Subject to regulatory approvals, the deal would see Virgin launch flights from Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney to Doha, and connect into Qatar Airways’ global network. “These extra flights will open up more than 100 new connecting itineraries across Europe, the Middle East and Africa for Australian travellers,” the airlines said. Virgin Australia Group chief executive …