Posts

Dave

Aspiring models given a chance to shine as Heathrow becomes a fashion hub

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Aspiring models passing through Heathrow Airport have been given a unique opportunity to launch their careers in the fashion industry, thanks to a new partnership with the inclusive model agency, The MiLK Collective.

In the lead-up to London Fashion Week, Heathrow Airport is playing host to scouts from The MiLK Collective, who are on the lookout for new faces among the record 1.75 million passengers expected to travel through the airport this season.

Successful candidates will have the chance to sign an exclusive contract with the agency for at least a year, joining a prestigious roster of models who have graced the covers of top fashion magazines like Vogue and worked with the most sought-after fashion brands.

Fashion Unveiled: Models walk the runway at Heathrow

The initiative kicked off with a surprise fashion show at Heathrow’s Terminal 5 Arrivals, where four of The MiLK Collective’s models showcased high fashion looks alongside travel essentials such as eye masks and suitcases. Onlookers waiting for their loved ones became an impromptu audience on the ‘front row’, or ‘FROW’, while passengers passing through the terminal joined the spectacle, displaying a variety of styles from casual airport attire to vintage dresses.

The MiLK Collective, known for its focus on diversity and challenging industry conventions, is looking for individuals of any age who have a distinct personality and style.

Talent Search: Model scouts assess arriving travellers

Scouts will return to Terminal 5 on Friday, 13th September, offering more passengers the chance to be discovered during Fashion Week, one of the busiest times for Heathrow, which has already seen over 30 million passengers since June.

Reflecting on the airport’s role in the fashion industry, Fraser Brown, Retail Director at Heathrow, said:

London Fashion Week is one of the UK’s most iconic cultural events, and industry leaders, designers, and models will soon be passing through our doors to attend. But the impact of the UK fashion industry goes far beyond just one week or one city.

It’s a powerhouse for the British economy, driving billions in value and sharing the work of creatives from all over Britain with the world – and we’re proud that Heathrow plays a unique role within this sector.

We’re excited to partner with The MiLK Collective to give aspiring models a chance to ‘take off’ right here at the airport.

The partnership follows a long tradition of models being discovered in airports, such as Kate Moss, who was famously scouted at New York’s JFK airport in 1988.

Anna Shillinglaw, Founder and Managing Director at The MiLK Collective, noted:

You can find a huge mix of people at airports, and so many who would be brilliant models. I’ve personally scouted passengers waiting for a flight or checking in a bag on recent trips abroad. Airport fashion is also a very unique thing.

Every time I’m at the airport I’ll see a mix of wonderful outfits that people choose to travel in, and it’s those individual looks and personalities that we’ll be looking out for as passengers take to the Heathrow runway. We’re expecting to see thousands of people in total and I can’t wait to see who eventually makes it onto our books.

Paul Baker, Sales Director of Global Travel Management, commented on the initiative:

For UK-based business travellers, this partnership between Heathrow and The MiLK Collective presents an exciting opportunity to see fashion and business travel intersect in a unique way. It’s not just a chance to experience the vibrancy of London Fashion Week but also a moment to witness the innovation and diversity that the UK fashion industry brings to the world stage.

Stylish Arrival: Model showcases fashion on the runway

With thousands of fashion executives, designers, and brands set to arrive from global destinations like Milan, Paris, New York, Shanghai, and Dubai, the collaboration between Heathrow and The MiLK Collective highlights the airport’s pivotal role in the fashion industry’s global ecosystem.

For information about flights from Heathrow or the best ways to reach the airport, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Record-breaking July: Heathrow tops Europe’s airports with 8 million passengers

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Heathrow Airport welcomed nearly 8 million passengers in July, cementing its position as Europe’s busiest airport for the first half of 2024, outpacing other major hubs such as Amsterdam Schiphol, Frankfurt, Madrid and Paris Charles de Gaulle by millions of passengers.

For the first time in its history, Heathrow surpassed 1.8 million passengers in a single week – an achievement it managed for three consecutive weeks from 8th to 28th July. This remarkable milestone came as the airport experienced six of its busiest ever departure days during the summer holiday period, with over 140,000 passengers and almost 140,000 bags passing through the airport daily.

The airport’s success during this period can be attributed to strong collaboration with its partners, ensuring smooth operations despite global challenges such as a recent IT outage and protest activity.

Popular destinations like Venice and Larnaca saw a surge in travellers, while routes to Doha, Dublin, Dubai and New York’s JFK Airport each recorded over a million passengers this year. US destinations including Orlando, Chicago, San Francisco, Boston and Dallas also experienced significant boosts in passenger numbers.

In addition to passenger traffic, Heathrow reported an 8% year-on-year increase in cargo tonnage for July 2024, further solidifying its role as the UK’s leading air cargo hub. This growth in cargo underscores Heathrow’s vital contribution to the UK economy, supporting exports, tourism, and investment across the country.

However, despite these successes, Heathrow has faced challenges. Since the introduction of the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme in 2023, the airport has lost 90,000 transfer passengers on routes to and from the seven countries affected by the scheme. This decline appears to be a blow to Heathrow’s competitiveness as a global hub, and the airport is urging the UK Government to reconsider the inclusion of airside transit passengers in the scheme.

Commenting on the airport’s achievements, Heathrow CEO Thomas Woldbye said,

Team GB’s performance in Paris has been an inspiration to the nation and to Team Heathrow. In July, we were smashing a passenger record almost every single day and we’re chasing down our never before seen goal of serving 8 million passengers in a single month. I’m proud that although there were a few potential challenges which could have caused us to stumble, our team remained focused on the prize of making every journey better and delivered a medal-winning start to the summer getaway.

For further information on flights from Heathrow, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Heathrow introduces new Summer experiences to enhance travel

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UK-based business travellers who frequently pass through Heathrow may find this summer’s offerings particularly appealing. While the airport is a familiar stop for many, Heathrow has introduced a range of new experiences, retailers, and dining options that provide fresh opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment before a flight.

With an anticipated 30 million passengers this Summer, these additions are set to enhance the experience for those looking to make the most of their time at the airport..

Here are the top ten experiences that await passengers at Heathrow this summer:

1. Engage in Pre-Flight Ping Pong and Table Football
Travellers can dive into some friendly competition while waiting to board, with classic tabletop games like Pong and table football now available in each of Heathrow’s departure lounges. These free-to-play games celebrate the sport-filled British summer and are available until 12 August.

Wiff waff: table top games including ping pong (above) and table football (below)

2. Get Creative with Kids’ Crafts
Back by popular demand, Heathrow’s arts and crafts trolleys are perfect for keeping young travellers entertained. Activities such as colouring, origami and magic painting offer a mess-free way for children to unleash their creativity before take-off.

3. Fast Track Security for a Smooth Start
Travellers can breeze through security by pre-booking Heathrow’s Fast Track service for just £12.50 per person. This convenient option is available for booking up until midday the day before travel, ensuring a stress-free start to any journey.

Fast Track: breeze through security

4. Enjoy Free Kids’ Meals Across All Terminals
Heathrow is helping families save this summer with its Kids Eat Free offer. Until 1 September, parents can enjoy a free kids’ meal for every main course purchased at participating restaurants throughout the airport, making it easier than ever to treat the whole family.

5. Sip on English Wines at The Vinery
For those seeking a touch of luxury, Terminal 2’s new wine bar, The Vinery, offers a curated selection of English wines, along with a seasonally tailored menu. The bar’s tasting flights provide an opportunity to sample a range of sommelier-selected flavours, perfect for a pre-flight indulgence.

The Vinery: fine dining meets modern convenience

6. Marvel at Olympic-Themed Living Statues
From 26 to 31 July, Heathrow’s terminals will host stunning Olympic-themed living statues. These performers, who bring sporting prowess to life with incredible poses, are sure to amaze passengers as they spring to life unexpectedly.

7. Travel in Style with a Personal Shopper
Heathrow’s complimentary Personal Shopper service is available for passengers seeking expert fashion and gifting advice. Located in dedicated lounges across Terminals 2, 3 and 5, this service offers a luxurious, tailored shopping experience.


Private shopper: experience the stress-busting benefits of a private shopping experience, free of charge

8. Refuel at Heathrow’s New Starbucks
Terminal 5 now boasts a brand-new Starbucks, offering a relaxing space for travellers to enjoy a cappuccino before their flight. The new store’s design, inspired by coffee-growing landscapes, provides the perfect atmosphere for a quick refresh.

Caffeine Corner: a new Starbucks in T5

9. Savour Artisanal Dishes at Jones The Grocer
The UK’s first Jones The Grocer store has opened in Terminal 2, offering passengers a chance to enjoy artisanal meals in a serene setting. The store also features an Express counter for those in need of a quick, gourmet bite.

Foodie Paradise: Jones the Grocer, founded in Australia in 1996, is a haven for artisan food lovers

10. Discover The Macallan Boutique’s Sensory Journey
Whisky enthusiasts can explore The Macallan Boutique in Terminal 5, the first of its kind in Europe. The boutique offers a sensory experience that celebrates The Macallan’s rich heritage, with a unique collection of whiskies available for purchase.

Whisky Haven: The passion and peerless spirit of The Macallan Estate is brought to life in Europe’s first Macallan Boutique, located in Heathrow Terminal 5

Heathrow’s latest additions are designed to cater to a diverse range of tastes and interests, ensuring that every passenger can find something to enjoy before their flight. From sports fans to foodies and families, there’s something for everyone at Heathrow this summer.

For more information on flights from Heathrow, please contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

Heathrow Airport reintroduces Fast Track security

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Heathrow Airport has announced the reopening of its Fast Track Security service for all passengers starting 1 June, just in time for what is expected to be its busiest summer ever.

With over 30 million passengers anticipated between June and September, this service will facilitate a smooth start to journeys across all Heathrow terminals.

Available daily from 06:00 to 22:00, Fast Track Security enables passengers to breeze through security checks, allowing more time to shop, dine and relax before their flights.

The service, which costs £12.50 per person and travellers can select a one-hour window for security clearance.

Fast Track is already included for those with a business first Heathrow Express ticket, eligible frequent flyer cardholders or passengers travelling in premium cabins.

Ross Baker, Chief Customer Officer at Heathrow Airport, commented,

We’re thrilled to bring back our Fast Track Security booking service for all passengers ahead of the summer getaway. Fast Track offers a premium security experience, cutting down queue times, getting journeys off to smooth starts and giving passengers extra peace of mind ahead of their trips.

Fast Track Security is part of Heathrow’s broader commitment to enhancing the passenger experience. In the first quarter of the year, almost 99% of passengers waited less than 10 minutes for security clearance, underscoring the airport’s efficiency.

In addition to Fast Track Security, Heathrow offers several airport lounges for passengers to relax before departure. To ensure a hassle-free experience, Heathrow advises passengers to check-in online, wear comfortable clothing, keep travel documents easily accessible, and fully charge electronic devices.

For long-haul flights, arriving at least three hours before departure is recommended, while two hours is sufficient for domestic and European flights.

For more information on Heathrow’s Fast Track Security and other services, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

Dave

British Airways and Heathrow team up with London Wildlife Trust to enhance nature reserves

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British Airways and Heathrow have joined forces in a new partnership with London Wildlife Trust to embark on a significant conservation and outreach project.

The initiative, titled ‘Connecting with Nature in Hillingdon,’ will focus on protecting and improving seven nature reserves and country parks in the Hillingdon area of west London.

This collaboration marks the largest corporate partnership to date for the London Wildlife Trust.

Bisected: Yeading Brook Meadows is a large green open space, divided by the Yeading Brook

The project aims to preserve and enhance the natural habitats within the region, ensuring that Hillingdon residents can appreciate and enjoy the abundant wildlife that surrounds them.

The selected sites for this initiative include Minet Country Park, Cranford Country Park, Huckerby’s Meadows, Yeading Brook Meadows, Ten Acre Wood, Gutteridge Woods, and Ickenham Marsh.

Through their joint investment, British Airways and Heathrow will support the project’s endeavors, which include various conservation activities and community engagement initiatives.

Working closely with Hillingdon Council, the project will also provide volunteering opportunities for individuals to actively contribute to the preservation and maintenance of these sites.

Hillingdon boasts numerous hidden treasures where residents and visitors can encounter fascinating wildlife such as kingfishers and kestrels along the picturesque Yeading Brook and Crane River.

Minet Country Park: 36-hectare park, originally part of the Coldharbour Estate, owned by the Minet family from 1766 to the mid-20th century

As part of the project, the London Wildlife Trust will oversee conservation efforts, including cattle grazing, path and fence maintenance, habitat restoration, new planting, and wildlife surveying.

To ensure effective progress monitoring, the project will recruit a ranger who will work closely with volunteers to safeguard and manage the sites.

Recruitment for these exciting opportunities will be announced shortly.

Additionally, the project will organise regular events, including guided walks and outdoor learning sessions, to facilitate the reconnection of residents with their local green spaces.

Mary Brew, Head of Community Investment and Responsible Business at British Airways, expressed pride in the BA Better World Community Fund. Over the past year, the fund has provided support to over 170 charities and organisations throughout the UK.

Mary Brew said,

This latest partnership with London Wildlife Trust is another brilliant project we’re delighted to support through the Community Fund. We’re looking forward to seeing ‘Connecting with Nature in Hillingdon’ deliver its programme of community engagement activities and volunteering opportunities across the borough.

Becky Coffin, Communities and Sustainability Director at Heathrow, highlighted the importance of supporting the launch of ‘Connecting with Nature in Hillingdon.’

Becky Coffin said,

Helping projects like this is exactly what our Giving Back Programme is all about, helping to make this area a great place to live and work

Richard Barnes, Head of Conservation at London Wildlife Trust, spoke about the significance of this new partnership:

This new partnership will enable us to build upon our 40-year investment in Hillingdon with a more ambitious programme of capital works, volunteering and engagement activities on five of our reserves and two of Hillingdon’s; delivering a step change in connecting communities with these sites.”

This partnership between British Airways, Heathrow, and London Wildlife Trust signifies a remarkable commitment to conservation, community engagement, and the preservation of natural heritage.

The ‘Connecting with Nature in Hillingdon’ project promises to foster a deeper appreciation for wildlife and the environment while providing opportunities for individuals to actively participate in safeguarding these invaluable spaces.

Dave

Heathrow Airport announces new CEO

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Heathrow Airport’s Board has officially confirmed the appointment of Thomas Woldbye as the successor to John Holland-Kaye, who will step down later this year after nearly a decade at the helm.

Following an extensive recruitment process, Woldbye emerged as the outstanding candidate among a pool of exceptional contenders, both internally and from around the world.

Thomas Woldbye: takes over from John Holland-Kaye as CEO of Heathrow

Currently serving as the CEO of Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record in leading a major airport, championing passenger service, sustainability and growth.

His appointment comes at a crucial time as Heathrow recently underwent an £11 billion private investment program by its shareholders, transforming it into the modern, top-rated airport it is today.

During his tenure at Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye prioritised customers and colleagues, leading to the airport’s transformation into a powerhouse transport hub of northern Europe, earning it accolades for its passenger service. His adeptness in navigating complex stakeholder relationships played a pivotal role in his success.

Woldbye forged strong links with the Danish Government, who are part owners of Copenhagen Airport, and fostered partnerships with airlines to drive investment and development, including significant expansions in terminal capacity.

Before his role at Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye spent 27 years at Møller-Mærsk, where he led the global shipping and ferry divisions, gaining substantial success in diverse operating environments and honing expertise in process efficiency.

John Holland-Kaye, the current CEO of Heathrow, will remain in his position over the summer to ensure the airport continues to deliver excellent passenger service until Woldbye officially assumes the role later this year.

In response to the appointment, Lord Deighton, Chairman of Heathrow, expressed the Board’s delight in selecting Woldbye as the next CEO. Deighton emphasised that Woldbye’s accomplishments at Copenhagen Airport align closely with Heathrow’s long-term strategy, highlighting his ability to successfully run a major airport and collaborate with stakeholders to achieve positive outcomes.

Acknowledging Holland-Kaye’s contribution, Deighton commended his unwavering dedication to colleagues and praised his transformative leadership that propelled Heathrow to become a premier global hub.

Holland-Kaye played a pivotal role in developing the expansion plan for Heathrow, securing overwhelming Parliamentary approval. He also adeptly navigated the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic and led the industry towards a net-zero future.

Expressing his confidence in Woldbye’s appointment, Holland-Kaye stated that an airport is more than just infrastructure; it is the people who work tirelessly to deliver excellent service to passengers. Holland-Kaye praised Woldbye’s leadership on diversity, sustainability, and his commitment to meeting the needs of passengers, believing that the Heathrow team will be instrumental in Woldbye’s success in delivering the best airport service in the world.

Woldbye himself expressed excitement, pride, and humility upon being chosen to lead one of the world’s most renowned airports on its future journey. He acknowledged the remarkable improvements made by the excellent team at Heathrow in recent years, creating a strong platform for further success. As an important engine for the British economy and intrinsically linked to the success of London and the wider UK, Woldbye looks forward to charting the path for this iconic company. His ambition is to enhance the airport experience for passengers, airlines, the community, and all parts of the UK.

Heathrow Airport, the UK’s international gateway and Europe’s largest airport, welcomes over 200,000 passengers on approximately 1,300 flights daily, serving as Britain’s hub for trade, tourism and investment. With approximately 75,000 colleagues, including airport employees and partners, such as airlines, ground handlers and retailers, Heathrow plays a vital role in connecting the UK to the world.

About Thomas Woldbye

  • Thomas Woldbye assumed the role of CEO at Copenhagen Airport in May 2011. In this position, he is responsible for overseeing the airport’s operations, facilities, and various sectors, including retail, food and beverage, hotels, real estate development, parking, and logistics. Under Woldbye’s leadership, Copenhagen Airport consistently ranks as one of the world’s top airports in terms of customer and retail experiences, efficiency, and profitability. He has successfully collaborated with Danish unions and prioritized customers throughout the airport’s staff.
  • Prior to his role at Copenhagen Airport, Woldbye served for 27 years at A.P. Møller-Mærsk, where he held various management positions across different countries, including Indonesia, Singapore, China, Hong Kong, the Netherlands, and Denmark. During this time, he played a pivotal role in managing A.P. Møller-Mærsk’s global container business, Maersk Line.
  • In 2004, Woldbye assumed the role of Group CEO at Norfolkline Group, headquartered in The Hague.
  • Woldbye holds an HD in Financing from Copenhagen Business School and has acquired professional qualifications from the London Business School and the IMD in Switzerland.
Dave

British Airways Introduces Exclusive Whispering Angel Rosé Bar for Ultimate In-flight Indulgence

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British Airways is raising the bar for its customers with the introduction of an exclusive Whispering Angel rosé bar.

This innovative concept will make British Airways the first airline to boast a bespoke bar dedicated solely to the world-famous rosé wine.

Positioned within the British Airways lounge at London Heathrow Terminal 5B, the bar aims to provide a refreshing and luxurious experience for passengers before their flights.

Scheduled to open its doors this summer, the Whispering Angel lounge bar will offer Caves d’Esclans’ exquisite Whispering Angel rosé, known for its Provençal pink hue and delightful blend of sun-kissed peach, raspberry, and citrus undertones. Embracing the rosé’s delicate aesthetics, the bar will be adorned in a pale pink color scheme, perfectly reflecting the light tones of the wine served.

In addition to this exciting addition, British Airways will be revitalizing the B gates lounge at Terminal 5.

Passengers can look forward to new and reupholstered furniture, as well as a refreshed layout, creating an even more inviting and comfortable atmosphere.

The Whispering Angel bar will be a haven for British Airways’ customers, offering them an exclusive experience with a wine that has already been well-received in the airline’s First and Club lounges.

The airline aims to enhance its drink offerings further, recently appointing a full-time Master of Wine – the only one known to be appointed by an airline worldwide.

This commitment to excellence is evidenced by the introduction of four new English sparkling wines on board starting from March 2023.

Passengers flying in Club World can now savor the choice of two sparkling options, including the current resident, Heidsieck & Co. Monopole Silver Top Non-Vintage Champagne, as well as an exclusive English sparkling wine.

The latter, offered on a quarterly rotation, provides a rich variety of options.

Currently, customers can indulge in the Digby Fine English Brut NV, with the Balfour Rosé de Noirs from the Balfour Hush Heath Estate in Kent set to join the lineup from July. This delightful lighter rosé sparkling wine, crafted exclusively for British Airways, will be available solely in the airline’s Club World cabin, offering a truly unique and elevated experience at 35,000 feet.

Looking ahead, Simpsons Chalklands Cuvee Brut NV from Kent will grace the selection from October, providing passengers with a perfect choice to round off the year. And starting from January 2024, the refreshing Wiston Estate Brut NV from the South Downs will be introduced, featuring enticing citrus and toasty notes, a delightful way to ring in the new year.

Calum Laming, British Airways’ Chief Customer Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming Whispering Angel bar, highlighting the positive feedback received from customers regarding the rosé already served in the lounges.

He said,

Our customers are already telling us how much they enjoy the Whispering Angel rosé we are serving in our lounges, so we are thrilled to be opening an exclusive Whispering Angel bar.

We truly believe this will be a massive hit with customers and we are excited that its introduction will coincide with a newly refurbished lounge in the satellite at London Heathrow Terminal 5 B gates.

Château d’Esclans, the producer of Whispering Angel, shared the excitement of the partnership with British Airways, expressing pride in collaborating to launch this stunning bar. They eagerly anticipate the opportunity to provide British Airways’ customers with a delightful glass of rosé before they take flight.

British Airways continues to redefine the inflight experience, focusing on enhancing its drinks offerings and setting new standards of luxury.

With the introduction of the Whispering Angel bar and an expanded selection of English sparkling wines, British Airways sets a new standard of luxury and ensures an extraordinary journey for its esteemed passengers from takeoff to touchdown.


Dave

Virgin Atlantic announces new routes across three continents

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Virgin Atlantic is expanding its global network by launching new routes to São Paulo, Brazil and Bengaluru, India, while also reintroducing flights to Dubai, Las Vegas, the Maldives, and Turks & Caicos, showcasing their commitment to serving UK-based business travellers with enhanced connectivity and state-of-the-art aircraft.

Virgin Atlantic has announced a series of exciting developments that are set to enhance the travel experiences of UK-based business travellers.

With the launch of new routes across three continents and the introduction of state-of-the-art aircraft, Virgin Atlantic is capitalising on growing demand for business travel. This expansion will offer customers more than 250,000 additional seats across the airline’s network, compared to 2019.

One of the most significant highlights is Virgin Atlantic’s foray into South America with the introduction of a brand-new daily flight from London Heathrow to São Paulo, Brazil.

São Paulo: bustling metropolis and foodie capital

São Paulo, a bustling metropolis known as the foodie capital of Brazil, offers a vibrant cultural scene and serves as a major hub for multinational businesses.

This move not only caters to corporate customers and business travellers but also provides a gateway for leisure travellers seeking enriching experiences.

Additionally, São Paulo’s position as South America’s leading import and export hub will make it a popular cargo route, facilitating trade between the UK and Brazil.

The airline’s expansion in India continues with the introduction of a new route to Bengaluru.

As Virgin Atlantic’s third destination and fourth daily service to India, Bengaluru strengthens the airline’s commitment to serving one of its fastest-growing markets.

The city, renowned for its technological advancements and thriving corporate sector, offers both business opportunities and cultural attractions for adventurous travellers.

New routes will provide seamless connectivity for customers traveling via London Heathrow to various North American destinations, courtesy of Virgin Atlantic’s joint venture partner, Delta Air Lines.

For those seeking premium winter sun destinations, Virgin Atlantic has exciting news as well. The airline will be reintroducing flights from Manchester to Las Vegas, enhancing its offering for leisure travellers in the North of England.

Furthermore, Virgin Atlantic’s return to Dubai, operating seasonally from October through March, will cater to the increasing demand for luxury getaways in sunny destinations. These routes not only accommodate passengers but also provide significant cargo capacity, facilitating trade between the Middle East and key markets in the UK and the US.

Shai Weiss: our plan is working

Demonstrating its commitment to the Caribbean region, Virgin Atlantic will introduce new inter-island flying, allowing both locals and holidaymakers to experience the joy of island hopping.

The airline’s dedication to this beautiful part of the world underlines its support for the region’s tourism industry and its commitment to providing diverse travel options for customers.

Shai Weiss, Virgin Atlantic CEO said,

We’re excited to announce a range of new routes across three continents, giving our customers the opportunity to fly in style with Virgin Atlantic. From our entrance into South America, to our expansion in India and the growth of our premium sun portfolio, there is something for all of our customers to experience.

By leveraging the power of our strategic partners, and welcoming our state of the art, brand new A350 and A339 aircraft, customers can rely on Virgin Atlantic to connect them to where they need to be, enjoying a premium customer experience, delivered by our amazing crew.

Our plan is working, positioning us to return to profitability in 2024.

A350: Virgin Atlantic has invested in one of the youngest fleets of aircraft

To support its network expansion, Virgin Atlantic is welcoming the arrival of new state-of-the-art aircraft, including the Airbus A350 and A330neo.

These aircraft not only contribute to a younger and more fuel-efficient fleet but also offer enhanced passenger experiences, with features like the reimagined Upper Class cabin and game-changing wireless charging.

By the end of 2024, the airline will have received its full order of 12 Airbus A350s and four A330neos.

The recruitment of an additional 350 cabin crew members will further strengthen the airline’s renowned customer service.

Virgin Atlantic’s dedication to sustainability is also commendable. With a commitment to achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, the airline operates one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets in the industry.

Over the past decade, Virgin Atlantic has reduced its absolute carbon emissions by 35%. The airline’s efforts to lead in sustainability are exemplified by its participation in an industry consortium aiming to deliver the first 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel flight across the Atlantic.

This initiative demonstrates the potential for SAF to be safely used as a drop-in fuel within existing infrastructure, engines, and airframes, supporting the industry’s goals of reducing environmental impact.

Virgin Atlantic’s recent announcements reflect the airline’s dedication to meeting the evolving needs of UK-based business travellers. With new routes, enhanced connectivity, state-of-the-art aircraft, and a strong commitment to sustainability, Virgin Atlantic is poised to provide an exceptional travel experience while supporting economic growth and trade opportunities between the UK and destinations across the globe.

Dave

Heathrow sees huge rise in passenger numbers and record satisfaction levels

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Heathrow has provided an update on its passenger numbers and “satisfaction levels” as the airport continues its strong recovery from the pandemic.

The airport has announced that more than 5.4 million passengers travelled through Heathrow in January, the busiest start of the year since 2020.

Heathrow: named best UK airport in Travel Weekly’s Globe Travel Awards 2023

Following detailed surveying of passengers, Heathrow also pointed out that overall passenger satisfaction is now at or above pre-pandemic levels. In January, 98% of passengers waited less than 10 minutes for security.

Border Force are trialling the use of eGates for children aged 10 and 11 in Terminal 5 over half term, and the airport says it is “fully supportive of Border Force’s aspirations to expand the use of eGates to more families and visa holders, assisting with smooth and seamless journeys”.

British Airways and Virgin recently announced restarting ticket sales to China, reopening a key market for British exports once more. Following the pandemic, the airport has worked with airline partners to rebuild the world-class connectivity Heathrow offers to passengers.

Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said: 

Heathrow is back to its best, with passenger satisfaction scores meeting or exceeding 2019 levels. We are giving a warm welcome to families over the half term getaway by delivering excellent service and bringing back the magic of travel.

Terminal passengers were 5.482 million in January 2023, up 111% on January 2022.

Dave

Virgin Atlantic to join SkyTeam

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SkyTeam, the global airline alliance, and Virgin Atlantic have announced that the UK airline will join as SkyTeam’s newest member in early 2023.

Virgin Atlantic will become SkyTeam’s first and only UK member airline, enhancing the alliance’s transatlantic network and services to and from Heathrow and Manchester Airport.

The alliance claimed that Virgin Atlantic customers ‘will benefit from a consistent, seamless customer experience, across 1,000+ global destinations. They’ll also have more opportunities to earn and redeem points across member airlines and access to a network of 750+ airport lounges, spanning six continents’.

Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club members will enjoy significant benefits from the day of joining, with a global expansion of its loyalty offering. Virgin Atlantic Silver Card holders will be recognised as SkyTeam Elite Members, whilst the airline’s Gold Card members will become Elite Plus. This recognition provides a raft of benefits, including priority check in, baggage handling and boarding. Flying Club members will be able to take advantage of the benefits as soon as Virgin Atlantic officially enrols in SkyTeam, which is expected early in 2023.

Virgin Atlantic’s entry into the alliance builds upon the success of its transatlantic joint venture partnership with Delta Air Lines and Air France-KLM, each already long established SkyTeam members. The four partners are co-located at London Heathrow’s Terminal Three, alongside existing SkyTeam members Aeromexico and China Eastern, providing customers with smooth airside transits and the most convenient connections times possible.

Walter Cho, SkyTeam Chairman said

Walter Cho

Virgin Atlantic is synonymous with innovation…

…and excellent service.

An iconic British airline with a global outlook that puts customers at the heart of its operations

– like SkyTeam and its members –

and we are delighted to welcome them into our alliance.

Kristin Colvile, SkyTeam CEO, said,

Kristin Colvile

As a member of SkyTeam, Virgin Atlantic will benefit from increased opportunities to expand its global network through partnerships and synergies: customers will have more ways to earn and burn miles while enjoying the service for which Virgin Atlantic is renowned. Virgin Atlantic shares SkyTeam’s values, caring for our customers, our employees, and the world in which they live, and we are excited to have them as part of the SkyTeam family.

Shai Weiss, CEO Virgin Atlantic, commented,

Shai Weiss: “2022 marks the year Virgin Atlantic gets back to its best for our customers and people and joining SkyTeam is an important milestone”.

At Virgin Atlantic we strive to create thoughtful experiences that feel different for our customers and SkyTeam shares that customer first ethos.

Our membership will allow us to enhance established relationships with our valued partners at Delta and Air France-KLM, as well as opening up opportunities to collaborate with new airlines.

It will enable a seamless customer experience, with an expanded network and maximised loyalty benefits.

Codeshare agreements are already in place with Aeromexico and Middle East Airlines with options for more codeshares to follow.

Interline agreements with all SkyTeam members are already in place, providing one touch point for all customers, creating a seamless journey on one ticket.

Virgin Atlantic flies to 12 destinations throughout the USA in partnership with Delta and Air France-KLM including New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and San Francisco.  In May the airline launched a brand-new service to Austin, Texas and will start daily flights to Tampa, Florida from November. Virgin Atlantic also operates an extensive Caribbean portfolio including Antigua, Barbados, Jamaica, and The Bahamas.  Virgin Atlantic also operates services to Greater China, India, Israel, Nigeria, Pakistan, and South Africa.

SkyTeam members, Delta, Air France and KLM are already collocated at Virgin Atlantic’s home base at London Heathrow Terminal 3. Virgin Atlantic operates long-haul services from UK regional airports including Edinburgh and Manchester. The airline offers a comprehensive network to North America and the Caribbean in partnership with Delta Air Lines, Air France and KLM, and also operates services to Greater China, Israel, Nigeria, Pakistan and South Africa.