Emirates Skywards and Virgin Blue Velocity are ending their frequent flyer partnership at the end of March. Until March 31, 2011, Emirates Skywards and Virgin Blue Velocity members can earn and redeem miles on either airline. Award tickets issued on or before March 31, 2011 will be valid a year from the date of issue but changes to awards will not be allowed after March 31, 2011. Virgin Blue is in the process of entering a five-year partnership with a competitor of Emirates, Etihad Airways, although a frequent flyer partnership between Etihad Guest and Velocity has not been announced.