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Dave

Virgin Atlantic’s ruby anniversary: new products and experiences for loyal customers

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Forty years ago, on 22nd June 1984, Virgin Atlantic carried its first customers from London to New York, promising a travel experience that was both exciting and different.

Since then, the airline has continuously innovated and set itself apart in the travel industry. In June, Virgin Atlantic is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a series of unique initiatives designed to delight its customers.

To mark this milestone, a special 40th birthday logo inspired by the bold stripe on Virgin Atlantic’s first aircraft, Maiden Voyager, will appear on new products throughout June. This distinctive logo is just one of the many ways the airline is bringing a splash of colour to air travel, emphasising its commitment to personalised service delivered by its incredible team.

The celebrations begin at Virgin Atlantic’s award-winning London Heathrow Clubhouse, which first opened in 2006. Upper Class customers can unwind with a special 40th birthday beer, a zesty pale ale brewed in Wimbledon, available exclusively at the London Heathrow Clubhouse from 1st June. The beer features English Maris Otter and Cara malt, offering a juicy aroma and smooth finish.

Ruby celebrations: a range of commemoration comestibles

All Clubhouses will also feature a new cocktail named Maiden Voyager, a modern twist on the classic 80s ‘Woo Woo’ cocktail. This fruity concoction includes vodka, peach puree, fresh lime, grenadine, egg white, and peach bitters, providing a refreshing experience for travellers. To complement the celebratory drinks, a signature 40th birthday red velvet cake with whipped cream and berries will be served, along with hit 80s tracks to enhance the festive atmosphere.

In a nod to its rich history, Virgin Atlantic will display a collection of its cabin crew uniforms from the past four decades at the London Heathrow Clubhouse. This exhibit includes designs by Arabella Pollen, Elizabeth and David Emmanuel, John Rocha, and the current iconic uniform by the late Vivienne Westwood, which debuted in 2014.

Adding to the in-flight experience, Virgin Atlantic’s signature cocktail, the Virgin Redhead, will now be available onboard in all cabins. Complimentary in Upper Class and for purchase in Premium and Economy, this vibrant drink features gin, mixed berries, a twist of lemon, and a splash of prosecco, making it a delightful addition to the drinks menu.

The airline’s renowned Mile High Afternoon Tea is also getting a ruby-themed makeover. Upper Class customers will enjoy an elderflower and blueberry scone, a lemon and blackcurrant birthday cake slice, and a raspberry macaron with the 40th birthday logo. Premium and Economy customers will also have themed treats, including a refreshing glass of English sparkling wine and a selection of delectable cakes and pastries.

Finally, Virgin Atlantic has partnered with Bottega to offer limited-edition prosecco bottles featuring a bespoke 40th birthday design. Available in both 75cl and 20cl sizes, the larger bottles can be pre-ordered through Virgin Atlantic’s Retail Therapy, while the smaller bottles will be available for purchase onboard in all cabins starting late June.

Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Chief Experience Officer at Virgin Atlantic, commented on the celebrations:

As we gear up to our Ruby anniversary, we are delighted to celebrate this milestone with our loyal customers, in our Clubhouses and onboard. For four decades, we’ve been there for the moments that matter and are committed to giving our customers the very best experience in the skies.

In our 40th year, our spirit is stronger than ever and the things that set us apart will keep us ahead. We look forward to the next 40 years as we continue flying to some of the greatest cities on earth, finding new ways to delight our customers with brilliantly different experiences, delivered by our amazing people.

For more information about these exciting initiatives and to experience Virgin Atlantic’s exceptional service, contact your Global Travel Management Account Manager.

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

Virgin Atlantic is marking English wine week by flying an English Bacchus in Upper Class across its network throughout June

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Virgin Atlantic and the renowned Yotes Court vineyard have joined forces to celebrate English wine week (17th-25th June) in a truly exceptional manner.

This exciting partnership entails Virgin Atlantic exclusively featuring Yotes Court’s acclaimed English Bacchus, aptly named ‘On the Nod,’ throughout the month of June in its Upper Class cabins.

Situated in the picturesque Kent countryside, Yotes Court vineyard sprawls across 75 acres of well-drained soil enriched with Kentish ragstone, creating the perfect environment for cultivating exquisite grapes.

Under the ownership and stewardship of Susannah Ricci, Yotes Court is renowned for its commitment to 100% sustainable practices.

As one of the pioneering vineyards to obtain the esteemed Sustainable Wine of Great Britain certification, Yotes Court prides itself on employing “living-soil” viticultural techniques, fostering biodiversity, and conserving the environment, thereby significantly reducing their carbon footprint per hectare.

Virgin Atlantic has a proud history of championing and implementing sustainable innovations.

As part of this ongoing commitment, the airline seeks to showcase exceptional brands that share its mission of sustainability.

In this regard, Yotes Court stands as a perfect match. The vineyard’s signature Bacchus, affectionately known as ‘On the Nod,’ derives its name from the thrilling world of horse racing. This term refers to a race so closely contested that the winner is determined by a photo of the finish, creating a truly captivating spectacle.

By featuring Yotes Court’s ‘On the Nod’ Bacchus on its flights, Virgin Atlantic not only provides a delightful and unique experience for its Upper Class passengers but also pays homage to the rich heritage and outstanding quality of English wines.

Business travellers flying with Virgin Atlantic during English wine week will have the opportunity to savour the exceptional craftsmanship of Yotes Court, immersing themselves in the captivating flavors and aromas that define this remarkable wine.

Shiada Drysdale, Beverage Lead for Virgin Atlantic said,

It’s no secret I am a huge fan of English wine, so I have been waiting for the right moment to introduce a zesty English Bacchus into our onboard range at Virgin Atlantic. I am delighted we will be offering Kent-based ‘On the Nod’ from Yotes Court in June as a ‘nod’ to English Wine Week.

Susannah Ricci, Owner of Yotes Court said,

It’s a real thrill and honour to have had our Bacchus chosen by Virgin Atlantic to celebrate English Wine Week this year.  Their dedication to adopting sustainable practices where possible, without compromising on quality, aligns very much to ours.  It’s such a great opportunity to introduce passengers to this amazing grape variety and I hope they thoroughly enjoy it.

Whether it’s the commitment to sustainability, the meticulous viticultural practices, or the captivating story behind the ‘On the Nod’ Bacchus, this partnership between Virgin Atlantic and Yotes Court epitomises the dedication to excellence and memorable experiences that business travellers seek.

As the airline continues to embrace sustainable and remarkable brands, passengers can look forward to a truly distinctive and environmentally conscious journey.

Dave

Virgin Atlantic and Korean Air announce codeshare agreement for seamless travel to Asia and Australasia

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Virgin Atlantic has exciting news for its customers as it announces the launch of a new codeshare agreement with Korean Air.

This will offer customers more opportunities to fly seamlessly to South Korea and beyond. The agreement is set to launch on 25 March, and customers booking through Virgin Atlantic will have the opportunity to travel directly to Incheon Airport, in South Korea’s capital, Seoul.

But that’s not all, as the agreement will be expanded to include further destinations in Asia and Australasia from June. Customers will be able to connect onwards from Seoul to a variety of destinations throughout Japan, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Australia, and New Zealand. Virgin Atlantic is confident that this codeshare agreement with Korean Air is the first step towards its entry to Seoul and is set to enhance the airline’s network in Asia.

Virgin Atlantic’s recent enrollment into the SkyTeam alliance further enhances customers benefits. Customers can earn and redeem Virgin Points and take advantage of SkyPriority benefits. As one of the founding members of the SkyTeam alliance, Korean Air is an excellent partner for Virgin Atlantic in the codeshare agreement.

From May, services to Shanghai, China will resume, alongside an expanded codeshare with IndiGo throughout India and beyond. Flying Club members will be able to take advantage of SkyPriority services at Seoul Incheon, including priority check-in, baggage handling, and boarding.

Virgin Atlantic Chief Commercial Officer, Juha Jarvinen, said,

We’re pleased to launch a codeshare with Korean Air, as we know such agreements bring an array of benefits to our customers.  As one of Asia’s major carriers, Virgin Atlantic customers can benefit from its extensive route network, that will offer more choice throughout Asia and Australasia. 

Our enrolment into SkyTeam, of which Korean Air is a founding member, enhances customers benefits further. Our Flying Club members can enjoy SkyPriority benefits at both London Heathrow and Seoul Incheon as well as earning and redeeming miles across Korean Air’s network.

This codeshare agreement between Virgin Atlantic and Korean Air is something for business travellers to look forward to.

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.

Dave

How airlines are marking Pride Month

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June marks Pride Month – we have taken a look at how some airlines are marking the celebration

Lufthansa

Lovehansa: June 2022’s ‘Lovehansa’ livery

To mark Pride Month, Lufthansa is taking off with a very special aircraft to destinations throughout Europe.

The Airbus A320neo with the registration D-AINY will become “Lovehansa” for the next six months.

On the outside of the aircraft, the Lufthansa livery has been replaced by a specially-designed “Lovehansa” marque, painted in the colours of the rainbow.

The welcome panel at the entrance will also have a special rainbow design.

Rainbow seats: onboard the Lovehansa

In addition, when looking out of the aircraft window, hearts in rainbow colours can be seen on the winglets. The first flight of the “Lovehansa” took place on 10 June to Billund in Denmark (LH842).

Lufthansa claims it is ‘a company that stands for openness, diversity and understanding’. And, with the “Lovehansa” special livery, ‘the company is sending another clear signal and making this important part of its corporate culture prominent and visible to the outside world’.

Virgin Atlantic

A three-year sponsorship of Manchester Pride – the UK’s largest Pride event – is probably the most public celebration of the LGBT+ community from Virgin Atlantic.

Pride: Manchester Pride’s CEO, Mark Fletcher (middle), with crew announces Virgin Atlantic’s three-year headline sponsorship of the festival

Virgin Atlantic are also the first-ever sponsor, in a ten-year agreement, of the Attitude Awards.

In 2020 the airline entered a multiyear partnership with Open for Business, launching the Caribbean Local Influencer Program to champion the business rationale for LGBTQ+ inclusion across the islands. The two-phased approach to the partnership with Open for Business consists of a research phase to understand business and socioeconomic impact of excluding the LGBTQ+ community, and a second phase to build a network of business leaders and civil society, using the research to advance LGBTQ+ rights and inclusion.

But on an individual level, Chief Commercial Officer Juha Jarvinen, has written eloquently and from the heart about his experiences in the corporate world, in a blog piece:

In the workplace, organisations that will thrive in the future are those which put inclusivity at the heart of their strategy. At Virgin Atlantic, we live by our purpose – everyone can take on the world – and we take inclusion and diversity seriously. To me, it’s so important that we foster a culture of belonging and actively encourage every single one of our people to be themselves at work every day. After years of not wanting to divulge my sexuality at work or in business networks, joining this airline in 2019 was a breath of fresh air. About one month into my role, I was asked to share an introductory post on our internal communications platform, Workplace, and it was the first time in my career that I’d felt comfortable and proud sharing exactly who I was: ‘Juha, a Finnish-born 43-year old with a love of travel, running & hot yoga, and lastly – but most importantly – happily married to my husband, Jussi’.

United

United Airlines ‘recognise, embrace and celebrate the differences that make our customers and employees unique’.

EQUAL: United’s inclusive business resource group that benefits lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer and ally coworkers.

United also claim to be ‘committed to creating an inclusive work environment while contributing to the diverse communities we serve. As a part of this mission, we believe it’s important to support the LGBTQ+ community by upholding inclusive policies and practices, partnering with LGBTQ+ organisations, and hosting programmes and engagement events to honour the LGBTQ+ community’.

United maintain sponsorships of, and relationships with, several organisations:

JetBlue

JetBlue is commemorating Pride Month with a series of special events and support for various LGBTQ+ organisations and partners throughout the month of June… and beyond.

Icema Gibbs, vice president CSR and DEI, JetBlue said,

At JetBlue, we believe the LGBTQ+ community should be supported year round, beyond Pride month, and we will continue to stand for the right for every crewmember and customer to feel safe and valued—while ensuring we are marching towards a more equal, inclusive and just world.

Gender-inclusive: JetBlue’s uniform and hair and makeup policy offers crewmembers a combination of uniform pieces, rather than pre-selected items based on binary gender terms.

JetBlue is a long-time supporter of The Stonewall Inn Gives Back Initiative (SIGBI), which leverages the historic significance of the New York City LGBTQ+ landmark to help other communities that don’t have the same LGBTQ+ resources or support.

The airline continues to serve as the official airline of The Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center – known locally as The Center. Since 1983, The Center has been supporting, fostering and celebrating the LGBTQ+ community of New York City and empowers people to lead healthy, successful lives. 

And last year, JetBlue rolled out ‘a new uniform policy with a vast range of apparel and hair and makeup preferences for all crewmembers, regardless of race/ethnicity, gender, age and body type’. By adopting a gender-inclusive program, JetBlue ensures that all crewmembers, regardless of gender identity, can feel represented.

Cape Air

Cape Air, is an airline headquartered at Barnstable Municipal Airport in Hyannis, Massachusetts, operating scheduled passenger services in the Northeast, the Caribbean, Midwest, and Eastern Montana.

Cape Air: a Pride-themed plane to its fleet for June. Pic: PROVINCETOWN BANNER/TAMORA ISRAEL

The airline introduced a Pride-themed plane at a media event hosted at Provincetown Municipal Airport.

Linda Markham, Cape Air CEO said

Putting a Pride flag not only on the wings, but on the tail of the plane means so much to us because we’re such a diverse organisation and we really want to celebrate inclusivity and equality.

American Airlines

KLM

Delta Air Lines

easyJet

Alaska Airlines

Dave

Virgin Atlantic celebrates the Platinum Jubilee with treats at 38,000 feet

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Virgin Atlantic is marking the momentous occasion that is The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee next weekend.

Customers flying to the US and Caribbean over the bank holiday weekend will be treated to extra special delicacies to celebrate Her Majesty’s historic 70-year reign.

Those travelling in Virgin Atlantic’s Economy class will be greeted with a milk chocolate crown lolly wrapped and tied with a festive red ribbon.

Virgin Atlantic is celebrating Her Majesty the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Premium and Upper Class customers will be offered a delicious Platinum Jubilee Mile High Tea, including a duo of finger sandwiches and a selection of mini patisseries.

The delectable cakes will be a Victoria sponge financier, a chocolate and tonka macaron, and a delicious vanilla and strawberry Battenberg with Virgin Atlantic purple-coloured marzipan.

A quintessentially English cocktail will accompany the bespoke Mile High Tea, using Hambledon English Sparkling Wine and Fever-Tree sweet British Rhubarb and Raspberry tonic.

The personalised beverage will also be available in the Virgin Atlantic London Heathrow Clubhouse, which will be wonderfully decorated to commemorate the occasion. 

Pratt Standard’s Earl Grey Vanilla Syrup, available only seasonally, is inspired by the London Fog

The celebrations are also stretching to the United States, with Virgin Atlantic Clubhouses across America also honouring the Platinum Jubilee.

Customers stopping by in San Francisco, JFK and Washington DC Clubhouses will have the chance to try out a special ‘Earl Grey Jubi-Tea’ cocktail, created with the Pratt Standard Cocktail Company’s Earl Grey Vanilla Syrup.

Pratt Standard are a woman-owned business based in Washington DC that prides itself on responsibly sourced ingredients and quality, perfectly aligning with the Virgin Atlantic five-star experience. 

Corneel Koster, Chief Customer & Operating Officer, Virgin Atlantic said:

We’re delighted to take part in the celebrations for the momentous occasion that is The Queen’s Platinum Jubilee next weekend. The Jubilee weekend marks a significant moment in history and we look forward to celebrating this memorable moment with our customers.

At Virgin Atlantic, creating personalised experiences and magical moments for our customers is what we do best, from the moment they arrive at the airport to when they land at their destination. From enhancing our already delicious inflight

Dave

Virgin Atlantic returns to daily Heathrow-Cape Town flights

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Virgin Atlantic has announced its return to Cape Town.

A new daily service starts on 5 November 2022 and the service will operate on a Boeing 787-9 with Virgin stating fares start from £711 return in Economy.

The aircraft boasts three classes, Upper Class, Premium and Economy offering different experiences for customers as well as the airline’s world-famous social space.

The new winter service runs until 24t March 2022 and will complement the existing year-round daily service to Johannesburg. 

The airline stated that ‘with demand for travel increasing’ passengers can ‘take full advantage of the beautiful destination with easier access than ever before’.

Business travellers often extend their trips to take in Robin Island, where customers can visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was held; and some wish to challenge their adventurous side by riding the cable cars to Table Mountain’s flat top for sweeping views of the city.

Cape Town is the gateway to the Cape Winelands, the country’s top region for wine tasting tours. 

Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic commented:  

We’re incredibly excited to return to the fabulous city of Cape Town with daily services from November. 

Although a little later than we we’d have liked due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the move reflects the fact that travel is recovering and global demand for holidays to sunny, premium destinations is returning at pace.

We’re expecting a high proportion of leisure travellers on this route who will rightly be taking advantage of the winter sun, exploring the world-renowned wine regions and soaking up the rich culture this incredible country has to offer.

Route facts

Virgin Atlantic was founded by entrepreneur Sir Richard Branson in 1984, with innovation and amazing customer service at its core. In 2021, Virgin Atlantic was voted Britain’s only Global Five Star Airline by APEX for the fifth year running in the Official Airline Ratings. 
Dave

Behind the scenes with Virgin Atlantic’s new advertising campaign

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Virgin Atlantic has launched a new brand and advertising campaign – the first in more than two years since the Covid-19 pandemic hit.

The campaign has been created with newly appointed advertising agency Lucky Generals and introduces the end line “See the world differently”, a line that draws on the airline’s heritage of challenging the status quo – as well as recognising that the travel industry is entering an exciting new era, after the disruption brought on by the pandemic.

You can see a behind-the-scenes view of the filming of the commercial which took place over five days, in three locations and starred Virgin Atlantic pilots, crew and front line team, below:

Shai Weiss, Virgin Atlantic CEO explained what is at the heart of the campaign: 

At the core of our business is the understanding that every one of our people can be themselves at work and that they belong. They truly are the thing that sets us apart and the reason customers choose to fly with us.

We know that the touchpoints that matter most and the experiences that differentiate Virgin Atlantic, are driven by our people and that’s why it was so important they’re at the heart of this campaign.

Annabelle Cordelli, Vice President, Brand & Marketing at Virgin Atlantic said,

It’s more important than ever that we reimagine the world and lead the way with fresh ideas. Virgin Atlantic is uniquely placed to do this because of the rich individuality of our people and our customers: the unique people who march to their own drumbeat, fly their own path, see things from a different angle.

So it makes sense to start by championing them – and then apply this spirit to everything we do. After two challenging years when life has been on pause, it’s time to see the world differently.

Virgin Atlantic was founded by Sir Richard Branson in 1984, with innovation and amazing customer service at its core. In 2021, Virgin Atlantic was voted Britain’s only Global Five Star Airline by APEX for the fifth year running in the Official Airline Ratings. Headquartered in London, it employs 6,500 people worldwide, flying customers to 27 destinations across four continents.       

Dave

Virgin Atlantic elevates its customer experience

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Virgin Atlantic has unveiled a series of new experiences that will be exclusively available on its A350s.

‘The Booth’ is the latest innovation in Virgin Atlantic’s industry leading social spaces and is available on its A350s with a leisure configuration.  Tucked away in the Upper Class cabin, The Booth aspires to create a cosy corner, providing comfy lounge style seating. It offers a number of experiences for two, including private dining and wine and cognac tasting.    

Upper Class customers can experience wine tasting with new drinks supplier, ‘The Uncommon’

The wine tasting experience will see drinks by The Uncommon feature for the first time on-board Virgin Atlantic.

The Uncommon is the UK’s number one producer of wine in a can and is paving the way for a new English wine era with its locally grown, sustainably made wine and spritzers. 

Customers in The Booth will be able to sample a thoughtfully curated selection of three wines from The Uncommon, which include an English White and Rose, alongside a lighter  spritzer – perfect to tantalise the tastebuds at 38,000 ft. 

For customers seeking a slightly richer experience, a cognac tasting experience with chocolate pairings courtesy of Delamain is also available. 

Delamain has been crafting some of the world’s finest cognacs for over two centuries and across nine generations.

Every Delamain cognac is crafted from deux-de-vie sourced from cognac’s finest terroir, the Grande Champagne. 

Every customer taking part in the tasting experience will receive a tasting glass to keep as a memento of their Virgin Atlantic journey. 

Further experiences on offer in The Booth include ‘Dinner for Two’ private dining for two and ‘Game Time’ where guests can compete with their travel partner thanks to exclusive Virgin Atlantic playing cards. 

Corneel Koster, Chief Customer and Operations Officer at Virgin Atlantic, commented;
 

We always strive to create brilliantly different experiences for our customers and the introduction of The Booth demonstrates this perfectly.  We’re famous for our on-board social spaces and The Booth elevates the customer proposition to new heights.

Whether that’s sampling the leading English wines from The Uncommon, sipping Delamain’s  signature cognac or simply enjoying a game of rummy at 38,000 feet, we’ve got something on offer to suit every one of our customers’ tastes.

Virgin Atlantic’s social spaces provide an unique opportunity for customers to interact with each other, alongside the airline’s famous cabin crew.  In the coming months the airline hopes to roll out further rich experiences for its customers across its entire fleet.

Virgin Atlantic’s Airbus A350 is  powered by Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines and continues Virgin Atlantic’s investment in a more sustainable fleet. It’s designed to be 30% more fuel and carbon efficient than the Boeing 747s it replaced and is expected to reduce the airline’s noise footprint at its airports by more than half.

The Booth was designed collaboratively by Virgin Atlantic’s in-house design team alongside London design agency Factorydesign.