Norwegian and Virgin Atlantic pilots to cooperate on the Boeing 787 training and long-haul expertise, will expand in Germany
Norwegian Long Haul (Norwegian Air Shuttle) (Oslo) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Virgin Atlantic Airways (London). The agreement enables Norwegian to tap into Virgin Atlantic’s expertise on long-haul operations, while Virgin Atlantic’s instructors will receive pilot training on board Norwegian’s brand new 787-8 Dreamliner. Norwegian’s first Dreamliner is due for delivery at the end of June.
The cooperation with Virgin Atlantic will enable Norwegian’s long-haul pilots to make use of the airline’s vast long-haul experience. Virgin Atlantic will make all its training material available to Norwegian.
Virgin Atlantic’s pilots to train on board Norwegian’s 787 Dreamliner
At the same time, Virgin Atlantic’s 787 instructors will conduct the final part of their pilot training on board Norwegian’s Dreamliners. Virgin Atlantic’s most experienced instructors will continue flying on board Norwegian’s aircraft until the airline receives its first 787 Dreamliner in September 2014, just over a year after Norwegian’s first Dreamliner delivery.
“Introducing a new aircraft type to an airline is an extensive affair. It is therefore important that we learn from each other,” says Director of Flight Operations Norwegian Long Haul, Torstein Hoås.
A great advantage to both parties
“Virgin Atlantic is a successful long-haul airline with almost 30 years of Trans-Atlantic experience. It will be very beneficial for us to receive this support. At the same time, we are looking forward to helping Virgin Atlantic introduce the 787 Dreamliner to its fleet. The cooperation will be a great advantage to both parties,” he continues.
Virgin Atlantic will be the launch customer in Europe of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, a slightly bigger version of the 787-8 Dreamliner. In the agreement signed on Friday, Virgin Atlantic states that it will train a number of Norwegian pilots on board its future Dreamliners.
“Virgin Atlantic are delighted to announce our training partnership with Norwegian. Our combined experience is being effectively utilised to ensure the safe and efficient introduction of the Boeing 787 aircraft to our fleet. We have much in common with Norwegian, having similar high quality training requirements, which has allowed our partnership to take shape,” says Captain Dave Kistruck, GM of Flight Operations for Virgin Atlantic.
In other news, Norwegian is expanding in the Germany-Spain market. The company has issued this statement:
Norwegian Air Shuttle continues its European expansion. The company has announced that it will launch new routes from Hamburg, Cologne and Munich to several Spanish destinations this autumn.
“The expansion in the German market is part of our future strategy to expand our presence outside of the Nordic region in order to meet the strong competition in the airline industry. We see that Germans frequently choose Norwegian when flying to Scandinavia and we believe that there is a demand for a quality airline that offers inexpensive fares between Germany and Spain. We are looking forward to welcoming passengers on board our modern and more eco-friendly aircraft,” said CEO of Norwegian Bjørn Kjos.
From the end of October, Norwegian launches brand new routes between Germany and Spain and will fly to Malaga, Alicante, Gran Canaria and Tenerife from Hamburg and Cologne. From Munich, Norwegian will offer flights to Malaga, Alicante and Tenerife.
Strong expansion
Norwegian is Europe’s third largest low-fare airline. As one of the fastest growing airlines in Europe, it is establishing itself outside of the Nordic region by opening bases in the UK and Spain. At the end of the month, Norwegian will, as the first European low-fare airline, commence long-haul flights to the US and Asia.
From Hamburg
Hamburg-Malaga (November 1), 3 weekly flights, from EUR 29,- one way
Hamburg-Alicante (November 1), 3 weekly flights, from EUR 29,- one way
Hamburg-Gran Canaria (October 27), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 49,- one way
Hamburg-Tenerife (October 27), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 49,- one way
From Cologne
Cologne-Malaga (October 31), 3 weekly flights, from EUR 29,- one way
Cologne-Alicante (November 1), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 29,- one way
Cologne-Gran Canaria (October 28), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 49,- one way
Cologne-Tenerife (October 28), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 49,- one way
From Munich
Munich-Malaga (November 1), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 39,- one way
Munich-Alicante (October 31), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 39,- one way
Munich-Tenerife (October 29), 2 weekly flights, from EUR 59,- one way
Copyright Photo: Norwegian Air Shuttle.
Norwegian: 
Virgin Atlantic: 
Virgin Atlantic prepares to launch “Little Red” on Sunday
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is preparing to launch its new UK feeder service called “Little Red” on Sunday, March 31. The first route will be London (Heathrow)-Manchester. London (Heathrow)-Edinburgh will follow on April 5 and finally London (Heathrow)-Aberdeen will be launched on April 9. The new service will be operated with four Aer Lingus A320s now being painted in the Virgin Atlantic brand.
Copyright Photo: Malcolm Nason. Aer Lingus’ A320-214 EI-DEO (msn 2486) “Queen of the Cobbles” poses for the camera at Shannon on March 28 after the repainting was finished.
Hot New Photos: 
Virgin Atlantic:
Virgin Atlantic freezes wages as it prepares to report a record yearly loss
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has frozen all salaries according to this report by Bloomberg. The struggling carrier is expected to report a loss of $201 million for its fiscal year ending on February 28 according to the Sunday Times.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Keith Burton. Looking almost new in its updated 2010 livery, Airbus A340-313X G-VELD (msn 214) climbs away from the runway at the London (Heathrow) hub. Higher fuel costs are hurting the carrier especially with its older less fuel-efficient aircraft like the Airbus A340-300. The last of the four A340-300s is expected to depart from the fleet this year.
Virgin Atlantic:
Virgin Atlantic introduces Virgin Atlantic Little Red
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has introduced its brand and name for its new inter-UK regional subsidiary. The airline issued this statement:
Virgin Atlantic Little Red is our new UK domestic service, offering great value, full service multiple daily flights between London Heathrow and Manchester, London Heathrow and Aberdeen and London Heathrow and Edinburgh.
Aberdeen flights begin on April 9, 2013
Edinburgh flights begin on April 5, 2013
Manchester flights begin on March 31, 2013
Virgin Atlantic is wet leasing four Airbus A320s for the new domestic services.
Virgin Atlantic:
Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic Airways to form a strategic alliance, Delta to buy 49% of Virgin Atlantic from Singapore Airlines
Delta Air Lines (Atlanta) and Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd. (London) have reached an agreement for a new joint venture that will create an expanded trans-Atlantic network and enhance competition between the U.K. and North America, offering greater benefits for customers traveling on those routes.
As part of this joint venture agreement, Delta will invest $360 million in Virgin Atlantic, acquiring a 49 percent stake currently held by Singapore Airlines. Virgin Group and Sir Richard Branson will retain the majority 51 percent stake and Virgin Atlantic Airways will retain its brand and operating certificate.
Highlights of the agreement include:
- A fully integrated joint venture that will operate on a “metal neutral” basis with both airlines sharing the costs and revenues from all joint venture flights.
- A combined trans-Atlantic network between the United Kingdom and North America with 31 peak-day round-trip flights.
- Enhanced benefits for customers including cooperation on services between New York and London, with a combined total of nine daily round-trip flights from London-Heathrow to John F. Kennedy International Airport and Newark Liberty International Airport.
- Reciprocal frequent flyer benefits.
- Shared access to Delta Sky Club and Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse airport lounges for elite passengers.
The airlines will file an application with the U.S. Department of Transportation for antitrust immunity, which will allow a closer relationship and coordination on schedules and operations. The transaction also will be reviewed by the U.S. Department of Justice and the European Union’s competition regulator and other relevant authorities. The share purchase and the joint venture are expected to be implemented by the end of 2013.
“Our new partnership with Virgin Atlantic will strengthen both airlines and provide a more effective competitor between North America and the U.K., particularly on the New York-London route, which is the largest airline route between the U.S. and Europe,” said Delta CEO Richard Anderson. “By combining the strengths of our two companies in a joint venture, we can provide customers with a seamless network between North America and the U.K., and continue building a better airline for our customers, employees and shareholders.”
Steve Ridgway, Virgin Atlantic Chief Executive, added: “Consumers will reap the rewards of this partnership between two great airline brands on services from the UK to the USA, Canada and Mexico through a shared ethos in the highest standards of customer service. This joint venture will deliver much more effective competition at Heathrow.
“Both airlines are confident that the Department of Transportation will be as convinced as we are of the extensive consumer benefits arising from this joint venture, with expedited approval being granted by the end of 2013. The trans-Atlantic market is Virgin Atlantic’s heartland – it’s where we started. By aligning with Delta we can continue to grow our North American network and offer greatly enhanced connectivity across the USA.”
Virgin Atlantic President, Sir Richard Branson, commented: “This is an exciting day in Virgin Atlantic history. It signals the start of a new era of expansion, financial growth and many opportunities for our customers and our business. I truly look forward to the possibilities our partnership with Delta will offer. We have always been known for our innovation and service and have punched above our weight for 28 years. That is why our customers love us so much. We will retain that independent spirit but move forward in a strengthened partnership with Delta.”
Delta and Virgin Atlantic customers will be able to earn and redeem miles across Delta’s SkyMiles and Virgin Atlantic’s FlyingClub frequent flyer programs. Premium customers also will have reciprocal access to the Delta Sky Club and Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse airport lounges. Full details will be announced as services become available.
The partnership allows both carriers to offer a greatly expanded network at Heathrow and to overcome slot constraints, which have limited the growth and competitive capability of both airlines. The two carriers will operate a total of 31 peak-day round-trip flights between the U.K. and North America, 23 of which operate at London-Heathrow. The enlarged network will benefit customers of both carriers by providing greater access to a broader network, improved connectivity and convenient booking options.
As part of a $3 billion investment in enhanced global products, services and airport facilities, all of Delta’s flights between the U.S. and London-Heathrow feature full flat-bed seats offering direct aisle access in the BusinessElite cabin. These flights also offer Delta’s popular Economy Comfort seating in the forward section of the economy cabin. Economy Comfort offers four additional inches of legroom and 50 percent more recline compared to standard economy seats. All cabins offer in-seat audio and video on demand with a broad range of in-flight entertainment options. Delta also will begin introducing in-flight WiFi service on international flights beginning in 2013.
Virgin Atlantic has recently completed a £150m upgrade program. A new Upper Class cabin has been introduced across its Airbus A330 aircraft, which features the longest fully flat bed in the sky. This is complemented by a redesigned onboard bar and new Clubhouses at both JFK and Newark airports. The airline’s Boeing 747 leisure fleet has been completely refitted and features onboard connectivity and VERA Touch – Virgin Atlantic’s award-winning touch screen in-flight entertainment system – offering passengers hours of entertainment at their fingertips.
Top Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. Boeing 747-451 N668US (msn 24223) completes its final approach into Tokyo (Narita).
Delta Air Lines: 
Virgin Atlantic Airways: 
Bottom Copyright Photo: Keith Burton. Airbus A340-642 G-VWEB (msn 787) arrives at the London (Heathrow) hub.
Delta and Virgin Atlantic are planning a trans-Atlantic joint venture
Delta Air Lines (Atlanta) and Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) are planning a trans-Atlantic joint venture if Delta is successful in obtaining Singapore Airlines’ 49 percent share in Virgin Atlantic according to this report by Reuters. Sir Richard Branson is not interested in selling his controlling 51 percent but is interested in working with Delta.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Top Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. Airbus A330-223 N861NW (msn 796) climbs away from Los Angeles International Airport.
Delta Air Lines:
Virgin Atlantic Airways:
Bottom Copyright Photo: Stephen Tornblom. Appropriately registered Airbus A330-343X G-VNYC (msn 1315) pushes back from gate at New York’s JFK International Airport.
Delta Air Lines is in talks to purchase Singapore Airlines’ 49% share of Virgin Atlantic Airways
Delta Air Lines (Atlanta) is reportedly in discussions with Singapore Airlines (Singapore) to acquire their 49 percent share in Virgin Atlantic Airways (London). If successful, Delta’s European partners, namely Air France-KLM, could then buy some of Sir Richard Branson’s shares to take control of the UK company according to this report by the Financial Times.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Top Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. If completed, it would be a bold move by SkyTeam to further increase its presence at slot-controlled Heathrow Airport in London against the Oneworld alliance. Boeing 737-832 N3755D (msn 29627) climbs away from Los Angeles International Airport.
Delta Air Lines:
Virgin Atlantic Airways:
Bottom Copyright Photo: Brian McDonough. Is the Virgin Atlantic brand in danger of becoming history? Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) arrives at New York (JFK) in the updated 2010 motif.
Virgin Atlantic wins all of the Heathrow slots, will launch new routes to Scotland
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has been awarded all of the London Heathrow slots vacated by British Airways (London) due to the BMI takeover according to this report by Reuters. Virgin Atlantic intends to introduce new intra-UK routes to Scotland to compete against BA.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Brian McDonough. Smaller Airbus narrow bodies are expected to join the Virgin fleet for these new routes. Airbus A330-343X G-VRAY (msn 1296) prepares to arrive at Washington (Dulles).
Virgin Atlantic Airways: 
Virgin Atlantic to offer Manchester-London Heathrow service with Airbus A319s starting on March 31
Virgin Atlantic Airways Ltd (London) has announced plans to fly from London Heathrow to Manchester Airport from March 2013 – providing competition to British Airways’ short haul service. The new route is the airline’s first foray into domestic flying; signaling the start of a new network which will provide regional feed to its long haul service as well as providing choice for important point to point passengers.
Sir Richard Branson’s airline is going to apply for all of the remedy slots being awarded by the European Commission following the IAG takeover of bmi, but is using some of its existing slots to service the Manchester to London route. The airline believes competition on this route has been neglected in the remedy process and aims to provide choice for the 650,000 passengers* who travel between the two cities.
The airline will operate three daily flights to Manchester using Airbus A319 aircraft from March 31, 2013.
The A319 will be a new type for Virgin Atlantic.
Copyright Photo: Nik French.
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: 
Virgin Atlantic swings into the red with a $124.5 million yearly operating loss
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) reported a pre-tax operating loss of $124.5 million for its fiscal year.
Read the full report from Reuters: CLICK HERE
In other news, the company has moved forward the start of the new London (Heathrow)-Washington (Dulles) to October 28, 2012.
Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. Airbus A340-642 G-VSSH (msn 615) completes its final approach into Los Angeles International Airport.
Virgin Atlantic: 
Aer Lingus wants to fly domestic routes in the United Kingdom
Aer Lingus (Dublin) is planning to launch a domestic route in the United Kingdom between London (Heathrow) and Edinburgh according to the Irish Independent. The route is up for grabs after British Airways (London) took over bmi (East Midlands) and was forced to give up the appropriate LHR slots as ordered by the European Commission. Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has also expressed an interest in serving the UK domestic route. The projected expansion comes after Ryanair (Dublin), which owns 29.8 percent of the Aer Lingus stock, launched its hostile bid to take control of the Irish carrier.
Read the full report from the Irish Independent: CLICK HERE
In other news, Aer Lingus today announced its schedule for winter 2012 along with the addition of six new routes and increased frequencies.
Dublin to Verona and Stockholm and Cork to Brussels are set to continue right throughout the winter, owing to their continued popularity. Other exciting destinations on offer include Copenhagen, Bordeaux and Venice.
Frequencies will be increased on a further eight popular routes such as Berlin, Vienna and Amsterdam. There will also be extra flights to Lanzarote and Tenerife which will be music to the ears of those seeking out a winter sunshine holiday in the Canary Islands.
Copyright Photo: Sebastian Fernandez.
Aer Lingus: 
Virgin Atlantic to sell its 10% share in AirAsia X
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is expected to sell its 10 percent share of AirAsia X (Kuala Lumpur) to existing stockholders for $21 million.
Read the full report from Asia One: CLICK HERE
Top Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum.
Virgin Atlantic: 
AirAsia X: 
Bottom Copyright Photo: Pepscl.
Virgin Atlantic arrives in Vancouver with its usual flair
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) yesterday (May 24) started its new route from London (Heathrow) to Vancouver. The new route will be operated four days a week with Airbus A340-300s.
Read the about the event in The Vancouver Sun: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Antony J. Best.
Virgin Atlantic to drop the Nairobi-London Heathrow route on September 24
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has elected to drop the Nairobi-London (Heathrow) route due to declining demand and rising fuel costs. The last flight on the Nairobi-Heathrow route will operate on September 24. The carrier added the route five years ago.
Read the full report from the Daily Mail: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Keith Burton.
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic to allow passengers to use their devices for Internet access on the London-New York route
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) will permit its passengers to send and receive text messages, e-mails and Internet access on its Airbus A330-300s on the London-New York route according to this report by Reuters.
This new in-flight service is “targeting business travelers and will be available in all cabins, although limited to six users at a time” per Reuters.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Fred Seggie
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic to appeal the IAG takeover of bmi, passengers evacuate an A330 at Gatwick
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is planning to appeal to the European Commission the recent decision to permit the IAG to acquire the assets of bmi (East Midlands). Virgin Atlantic also intends to apply for the 12 slot pairs at Heathrow Airport should the appeal fail.
Read the full report from Business Traveller: CLICK HERE
In other news, flight VS 27 from London (Gatwick) to Orlando yesterday (April 16) returned to LGW after a fire was reported, although the airline later disputed this report. The 229 passengers and 13 crew members exited the Airbus A330-300 via the emergency chutes. Four passengers received minor injuries. The incident closed the airport for other traffic for 90 minutes.
Read the full report from The Star: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Luimer Cordero.
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic launches twice-weekly Manchester-Las Vegas flights, will fight for 12 slot pairs at Heathrow
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) on April 3 launched twice-weekly Manchester-Las Vegas flights with Boeing 747-400s. The route will be Virgin Atlantic’s 33rd from the UK and the carrier’s third from Manchester.
In other news, Virgin Atlantic is going to fight hard to secure the 12 slot pairs at London (Heathrow) that are being surrendered as a result of the IAG’s acquisition of BMI.
Read the full story from Travel News: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Luimer Cordero.
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
The BMI takeover is approved by the European Commission with conditions
British Airways (London) and the IAG have won their fight against Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) for the acquisition of BMI (East Midlands) and the valuable slots at London’s Heathrow Airport. The takeover of BMI from Lufthansa (Frankfurt) has been approved by the European Commission with conditions – British Airways will have to give up 14 slot pairs at London (Heathrow). However this is somewhat mute of an issue since BA will gain an additional 42 slot pairs with the BMI acquisition. Bottom line: Virgin Atlantic loses this battle with BA and the BMI brand will quickly be replaced with the BA livery. BA/IAG is expected to close on the deal around April 20. Goodbye BMI. LHR will certainly become a BA fortress hub.
Subsidiary bmibaby will not be part of this deal.
Read the full story from The Guardian: CLICK HERE
The BBC asks the question of whether BA/IAG gave up enough for BMI: CLICK HERE
BMI Slide Show: CLICK HERE
British Airways Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic adopts a “block IAG takeover and replace BMI” strategy
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) LHR (Wingnut) (new livery), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is calling on the European Commission to block the IAG takeover of BMI (East Midlands). The company is also vowing to replace the critical UK-Heathrow feeder services provided by BMI with its own UK regional carrier.
Is Virgin Atlantic the undisclosed bidder for BMI Regional?
Read the full article from Travel Weekly: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Wingnut.
Virgin Atlantic Photo Gallery: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic makes a new bid for BMI
bmi (British Midland Airways) Airbus A319-131 G-DBCB (msn 2188) LHR (Keith Burton), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Lufthansa (Frankfurt) today (December 12) confirmed Virgin Atlantic Airways has made a new bid for BMI (British Midland International) according to this report by the New York Times. The new bid now raises the stakes with the IAG for the valuable takeoff and landing slots at London’s Heathrow Airport.
The move comes a month after the International Airlines Group (British Airways and Iberia) announced that it had reached a preliminary agreement with Lufthansa to acquire BMI.
Stay tuned. This deal is not done yet.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Keith Burton.
BMI Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic Airways is coming to Vancouver
Virgin Atlantic Airways Airbus A340-313 G-VSUN (msn 114) LHR (Keith Burton), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is coming to Vancouver in 2012. The airline will operate summer seasonal service (four times weekly) with Airbus A340-300s between May 24, 2012 and October 25, 2012.
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Keith Burton.
Virgin Atlantic is interested in merging with BMI, will develop the world’s first low carbon aviation fuel
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) MAN (Nik French) (new livery), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is strongly pursuing a buy-out of rival BMI (East Midlands) from Lufthansa and combining the two carriers according to this report by Bloomberg Businessweek.
Read the full report: CLICK HERE
In other news, Virgin Atlantic Airways today announced the development of a world-first low carbon aviation fuel with just half the carbon footprint of the standard fossil fuel alternative.
The ground breaking partnership with LanzaTech represents a breakthrough in aviation fuel technology that will see waste gases from industrial steel production being captured, fermented and chemically converted using Swedish Biofuels technology for use as a jet fuel. The revolutionary fuel production process recycles waste gases that would otherwise be burnt into the atmosphere as carbon dioxide.
Within two to three years Virgin Atlantic will plan flights with the new fuel on its routes from Shanghai and Delhi to London Heathrow as LanzaTech and partners develop facilities in China and India. The technology is currently being piloted in New Zealand, a larger demonstration facility will be commissioned in Shanghai this year, and the first commercial operation will be in place in China by 2014. Following successful implementation, a wider roll-out could include operations in the UK and the rest of the world.
LanzaTech estimates that its process can apply to 65 % of the world’s steel mills, allowing the fuel to be rolled out for worldwide commercial use. The energy company believes that this process can also apply to metals processing and chemical industries, growing its potential considerably further.
Virgin Atlantic will be the first airline to use this fuel and will work with LanzaTech, Boeing and Swedish Biofuels towards achieving the technical approval required for using new fuel types in commercial aircraft. A “demo” flight with the new fuel is planned in 12-18 months.
This next generation technology overcomes the complex land use issues associated with some earlier generation biofuels – and detailed analysis suggests the fuel will produce around a 50% saving in lifecycle carbon emissions. The Roundtable for Sustainable Biofuels (RSB), the leading international body to ensure the sustainability of biofuels production, will advise the team to ensure the fuel produced meets key environmental, social and economic criteria.
Virgin Atlantic believes that this development will take the airline well beyond its pledge of a 30% carbon reduction per passenger km by 2020. The investment in renewable fuels is part of our wider program to reduce carbon through measures such as using new, more fuel-efficient aircraft and supporting a global carbon cap and trade scheme, through our involvement in Aviation Global Deal group.
Copyright Photo: Nik French.
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic continues to express its interest in acquiring BMI from Lufthansa
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) LHR (Wingnut) (new livery), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is keen on acquiring BMI (East Midlands) and its valuable Heathrow Airport slots.
Lufthansa is still studying whether to sell BMI or attempt to turnaround the loss-making UK carrier.
Read the full report from Bloomberg: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Wingnut. Please click on the photo for additional information.
Virgin Atlantic returns to profitability, will invest in cabin improvements
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-4Q8 G-VFAB (msn 24958) (Birthday Girl) MIA (Bruce Drum), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has announced a $162.9 million (100m pounds) investment in product development as it reported a strong year of trading and a return to profit. Despite the winter closure of London Heathrow and the Ash Cloud crisis costing the business a combined $65.2 million (40m pounds), strong growth in business traffic and solid load factors across all cabins delivered a good recovery.
On the airline’s routes between the US and the UK, which include five daily flights from New York to Heathrow, summer flights from Orlando to three UK airports, and service from eight other destinations, there was a very strong 21 percent growth in revenue.
The company reported a pre-tax operating profit of $30.1 million (18.5m pounds) for its fiscal year.
It is unclear how the current UK riots will affect future revenues and profits.
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum. Please click on the photo for additional information.
Virgin Atlantic Airways and its pilots avert a strike with a tentative deal
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) MAN (Nik French) (new livery), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has avoided its first strike with its pilots by securing a tentative agreement with the pilots, subject to ratification by the members.
Read the full story from the WSJ: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Nik French. Please click on the photo for the story of this new livery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways’ Sir Richard Branson pleads with the pilots to call off their proposed strike
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-4Q8 G-VFAB (msn 24958) (Birthday Girl) MIA (Bruce Drum), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is facing possible industrial action by its pilots, the first strike in Virgin’s history if it goes ahead. Sir Richard Branson has pleaded with the 750 pilots to call off the strike action that is set to cause mass chaos. Branson has sent a letter to the pilots calling for the pilots to call off their industrial action and to reconsider the pay structure that the airline has offered them according to this article by IBTraveler.
Read the full story: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum. Please click on the photo for information on this special color scheme.
Virgin Atlantic Airways to launch a new route to Cancun
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) LHR (Wingnut) (new livery), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) announced today the launch of the airline’s 33rd destination with the introduction of flights between London and Cancun, Mexico. The twice weekly service will debut on June 12, 2012 and the carrier expects to carry up to 94,000 Virgin Atlantic customers traveling between London and Cancun in the first year.
The twice weekly service will be operated by a Boeing 747-400 with three-classes of service that will feature 14 Upper Class Suites, 58 Premium Economy seats and 379 Economy seats.
This addition to Virgin Atlantic’s leisure program follows its recent launch of Manchester to Las Vegas flights and the recent introduction of its Airbus A330 aircraft on its Orlando route.
Virgin Atlantic currently flies to 33 destinations worldwide. The airline carried six million passengers in 2010 and has 39 long haul aircraft in its fleet.
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Wingnut. Please click on the photo for information on the updated livery.
Virgin Atlantic’s Richard Branson seeks a partner to compete with British Airways.
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-4Q8 G-VFAB (msn 24958) (Birthday Girl) MIA (Bruce Drum), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways’ (London) majority shareholder Sir Richard Branson is seeking a partner to help his company compete against British Airways.
The flag carrier is owned by Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Group (51%) and Singapore Airlines (49%). Branson said he intends to remain a “major shareholder” in the company. Branson is considering the sale of his 51% stake after he hired Deutsche Bank AG to assess his options according to this article by Bloomberg.
Virgin Atlantic has been a rival of British Airways since inception, as previously British Airways had been the only airline from Britain serving long haul routes to destinations such as North America, the Caribbean and the Far East.
Read the full story by Bloomberg: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum. Please click on the photo for more information.
Virgin Atlantic Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Virgin Atlantic Airways puts its first Airbus A330-300 into revenue service
Virgin Atlantic Airways Airbus A330-343X G-VSXY (msn 1195) LGW (Terry Wade) (first A330), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) yesterday (April 5) placed its first new Airbus A330-300 into revenue service on the Manchester-Orlando route.
Copyright Photo: Terry Wade. Please click on the photo for the full story.
Hot New Photos Slide Show: CLICK HERE
JetBlue Airways and Virgin Atlantic Airways team up for trans-Atlantic connections
JetBlue Airways Airbus A320-232 N661JB (msn 3228) LGB (Stephen Tornblom), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
JetBlue Airways (New York) and Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) have announced the launch of a new trans-Atlantic interline partnership that links the networks of the two airlines.
Effective March 22, travellers can now connect from London, Glasgow and Manchester on Virgin Atlantic onward to JetBlue’s domestic flights.
The airlines will interline in the following Virgin Atlantic-operated transatlantic markets that depart from JetBlue’s Boston, New York, Washington and Orlando focus cities:
Boston – London (Heathrow)
New York (Kennedy) – London (Heathrow)
Orlando – Glasgow
Orlando – London (Gatwick)
Orlando – Manchester
Washington (Dulles) – London (Heathrow)
JetBlue Slide Show: CLICK HERE
Copyright Photo: Stephen Tornblom. Please click on the photo fro the aircraft details.
Virgin Atlantic Airways is being coaxed to join the SkyTeam alliance
Virgin Atlantic Airways Airbus A340-313 G-VSUN (msn 114) LHR (Keith Burton), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is attracting new interest from Air France-KLM and Delta Air Lines as a possible new member of the SkyTeam alliance. Virgin has remained independent but the new British Airways-Iberia-American Airlines alliance has forced it to look at other options.
Read the full article by the Associated Press:
Copyright Photo: Keith Burton. Please click on the photo for aircraft information.
Virgin Atlantic ‘s first Airbus A330 is now flying
Airbus A330-343E Virgin Atlantic cn1195 F-WWKY, originally uploaded by By cac.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) will soon take delivery of its first Airbus A330-300
Copyright Photo: Clement Alloing. A330-343XD F-WWKY (msn 1195) is pictured at Toulouse on February 8. It will be re-registered as G-VSXY on delivery.
Singapore Airlines is open to selling its 49% share in Virgin Atlantic
Singapore Airlines Boeing 777-212 ER 9V-SVC (msn 28526) SIN (Michael B. Ing), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Singapore Airlines (Singapore) is open to selling its 49 percent share in Virgin Atlantic Airways.
Read the full story from the Sydney Morning Herald:
Copyright Photo: Michael B. Ing. Please click on the photo for additional aircraft details.
Is AirAsia’s Tony Fernandes getting ready to make a bid for Virgin Atlantic?
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-443 G-VROY (msn 32340) LGW (Antony J. Best), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has recently stated it has received several inquiries. One of them may be from Tony Fernandes of AirAsia as reported in this article. Singapore Airlines currently owns 49 percent of Virgin Atlantic.
Read the full story from Reuters:
Meanwhile Tony Fernandes has denied these reports that he is interested in Virgin Atlantic.
Read the full story from Reuters:
Copyright Photo: Antony J. Best. Please click on the photo for additional aircraft details.
Virgin Atlantic Airways confirms it is talking to several parties
Virgin Atlantic Airways Airbus A340-642 G-VYOU (msn 765) LHR (Rolf Wallner), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) which stated it was interested in discussing a possible merger with the right party six months ago, has now confirmed it has been approached by “several parties”. Delta Air Lines is reported to be one of the parties for a possible connection.
Read the full report from Bloomberg:
Copyright Photo: Rolf Wallner. Please click on the photo for additional details.
Virgin Atlantic flies the 49ers and Broncos to London
Caption: David Neal. Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) lands at Charlotte to pick up the San Francisco 49ers after their game with the Carolina Panthers yesterday.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) yesterday (October 24) teamed up with the National Football League (NFL) to fly the San Francisco 49ers and the Denver Broncos to London for the 2010 Pepsi Max International Series.
Virgin Atlantic has leveraged the agreement by reaching the NFL base through a San Francisco radio promotion on KNBR that gave Bay Area residents the chance to win a die-hard NFL fan’s dream experience including Virgin Atlantic flights, tickets to the game and NFL VIP experiences. Virgin Atlantic’s loyalty program, Flying Club, offered its members the chance to experience the game and London by entering a sweepstakes to win two Premium Economy tickets, two nights at St. Martin’s Lane and game day seats.
This will be the fourth installment of the NFL hosting an International Series game at London’s famed Wembley Stadium, and giving the United Kingdom a taste of competitive Regular Season American football action.
In addition to supporting the NFL International Series through the charter flights, Virgin Atlantic will extend the agreement with a range of sponsorship activity in the UK. This will include reaching U.S. and U.K. American football fans at the first-ever NFL public fan rally at Trafalgar Square, becoming the presenting sponsor aboard the NFL’s Saturday night river cruise and hosting a hospitality event for key customers and guests at Wembley Stadium.
The international game will be broadcast live on Sky Sports in the U.K. at 5:00 p.m. GMT and on select CBS affiliates in the U.S. at 1:00 p.m. ET.
Virgin Atlantic Airways sees 10% revenue growth in its first 1Q
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) MAN (Nik French) (new livery), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is reporting a 10 percent revenue growth in its fiscal first quarter.
Read the press release:
Copyright Photo: Nik French. The first aircraft in the “new paint” color scheme is Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) seen on the ramp at Manchester.
Virgin Atlantic Airways introduces a new livery
Copyright Photo: Nik French.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) this morning (July 25) rolled out a new on Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) at Air Livery at Manchester. The revised scheme has taken the rather drab 2006 color scheme and added large lower case billboard titles.
On July 29 Virgin Atlantic officially unveiled the new aircraft livery and brand identity for the airline. As the press release states, “the new design, which will be applied to all of the company’s 38 aircraft, signage, communications and advertising was showcased on one of Virgin Atlantic’s Boeing 747-400 aircraft G-VROC.
The Virgin Atlantic name, previously on the front end of the fuselage is now emblazoned large across the whole of the aircraft in a fine custom drawn font. In addition, the undercarriage of the aircraft now features the new Virgin Atlantic logo in dark purple – making the aircraft more easily identifiable when taking off and landing. The winglets are now red with the Virgin script on the inner side, visible to passengers on board the plane.
The new livery uses an entirely new paint system which is unique to Virgin Atlantic – a first on commercial aircraft. It has been specially developed to achieve a highly reflective depth of metallic color.
The painting process has been simplified, using fewer maskings and applications for a drastic reduction in materials used. Over 450 liters of paint was used and took over 3,000 – 3,500 man hours to paint. The new paint is more durable so aircraft will only require re- painting once a decade.
The iconic, flag carrying flying lady, who appears on all Virgin Atlantic aircraft, has been rejuvenated with a subtle cosmetic makeover and enhanced detailing – now fluttering a larger Union Jack.
London brand agency Circus was commissioned in 2008 to review and refine the Virgin Atlantic brand values. The new livery and logo were developed by award winning design consultancy, Johnson Banks, in collaboration with the in-house brand design team, led by Joe Ferry and Nina Jenkins, and was created using the brand values defined by Circus.”
Copyright Photo: Nik French. Boeing 747-41R G-VROC (msn 32746) is pictured at MAN after the roll out.
Bradley “International” Airport
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) flight from London (Heathrow) to Newark yesterday had to divert to Hartford/Springfield (Bradley International Airport) due to bad weather at the destination. Despite the Bradley airport name, the passengers were forced to wait four hours for the clearance officers to be called in and to arrive so the passengers could deplane the aircraft. The airline apologized to the passengers but there needs to be a better way to handle situations like this. What do you think?
New Rule: Don’t call yourself an “international airport” if you do not have regular FIS inspectors on duty.
Read the full sorry story:
Virgin Atlantic Airways would consider a merger if BA-AA deal is approved
Virgin Atlantic Airways Airbus A340-313 G-VSUN (msn 114) LHR (Keith Burton), originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) would consider a merger with another carrier if the British Airways-American Airlines relationship is approved according to this Reuters report.
Read the full report:
Copyright Photo: Keith Burton. Virgin Atlantic’s Airbus A340-313 G-VSUN (msn 114) in the updated 2006 colors arrives back at London (Heathrow).
Virgin Atlantic launches a new advertising campaign
Copyright Photo: Nik French. A close-up of the new Harry Potter logojet scheme on Boeing 747-443 G-VLIP (msn 32338).
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) announced the launch of their first-ever global marketing campaign, “Your Airline’s Either Got it or it Hasn’t.”
The new campaign, launching first in the U.S., stems from the roots Virgin Atlantic was built on – a passion for flying and challenging the norm to give travelers a unique and unforgettable flight experience. Reaffirming Virgin Atlantic’s belief that flying should be a pleasure, not a chore, the campaign line, “Your Airline’s Either Got it or it Hasn’t” encourages passengers to compare their flying experiences and asks “does your airline have ‘it’?” ’It’ represents what makes flying Virgin Atlantic great, from complimentary car service on all four legs of the journey to moving from curb to Clubhouse in under 10 minutes atHeathrow’s Upper Class Wing, to a fully flat bed with your own aisle access. These are just some of the ways that separate Virgin Atlantic from the rest, and as one ad proclaims, Virgin Atlantic is “Je ne sais quoi. Defined.”
“Your Airline’s Either Got it or it Hasn’t” represents a new direction for the airline’s advertising program, by moving to a single global campaign and creating a seamless look across all its global gateways. The rich style of photography features the product benefits of Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class Suite, Heathrow Clubhouse, complimentary car service and other elements that separate Virgin Atlantic from its competitors.
The U.S. will be the first global market to fully launch the campaign, which was developed by the Virgin Atlantic global team and agency of record, RKCR/Y&R in the UK and Y&R offices globally. The campaign will then continue to move across the globe to all 32 destinations the airline flies. ”Your Airline’s Either Got it or it Hasn’t” will be first seen in the U.S. in consumer and lifestyle print publications, online banners, rich media, email, promotions, and events sponsorship.
To experience the Virgin Atlantic difference, the carrier has launched a new microsite at www.Virginatlantic.com/experience.
Virgin Atlantic Airways introduces the Harry Potter logojet
G-VLIP, originally uploaded by FastEddie-Freedom Aviation Photography.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has introduced its new Harry Potter logojet to help promote the opening of Universal Studios’ “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” next month in Orlando.
Copyright Photo: FastEddie – Freedom Aviation Photography. Boeing 747-443 G-VLIP (msn 32338) is now wearing this large Harry Potter sticker.
Virgin Atlantic signs contract for six Airbus A330-300s
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has signed a contract for six new Airbus A330-300s. The airline will also lease four from AerCap.
New link:
Virgin Atlantic Airways responds to European Commission concerning the BA/AA proposed relationship
Please click on the AG icon for a direct link to the Virgin Atlantic Airways photo gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has formally responded to the European Commission about the proposed British Airways/American Airlines relationship, which Virgin Atlantic terms a “merger”.
Press release:
finance.yahoo.com/news/Virgin-Atlantic-Responds-to-prnews-4196557340.html?x=0&.v=1
American Airlines and Virgin Atlantic Airways trade accusatory press releases
American Airlines (Dallas/Fort Worth) has issued a press release disputing allegations made by Virgin Atlantic Airways. Virgin Atlantic stated American is guilty of making “hypocritical comments” concerning market dominance.
Here is the press release issued by American:
finance.yahoo.com/news/American-Airlines-Sets-the-prnews-2657350165.html?x=0&.v=1
Here is the original press release issued by Virgin Atlantic:
finance.yahoo.com/news/Virgin-Atlantic-Urges-US-prnews-292460.html?x=0&.v=1
Virgin Atlantic flies Buccaneers and Patriots
Virgin Atlantic Airways Boeing 747-4Q8 G-VFAB (msn 24958) (Birthday Girl) MIA, originally uploaded by Airliners Gallery.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) was selected to carry both the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the New England Patriots to the regular season NFL game on sunday (October 25) in London. A Boeing 747-400 will fly each team.
Press release:
finance.yahoo.com/news/London-Calling-Virgin-prnews-316967934.html?x=0&.v=1
Copyright Photo: Bruce Drum.
Please click on photo or link below for full view, information and other photos:
Virgin Atlantic welcomes EU AA/BA concerns
Copyright Photo: Richard Vandervord. Please click on photo for full view, information and other photos.
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) has long opposed any closer relationship between British Airways and American Airlines, saying it is anti-competitive. As you would expect, Virgin Atlantic has publicly stated it welcomes the same concerns expressed by the European Commission although it has not yet seen the details.
Press release:
finance.yahoo.com/news/Virgin-Atlantic-Welcomes-prnews-1359126037.html?x=0&.v=1
Virgin’s Branson sends a letter against BA/AA
Virgin Atlantic Airways’ (Virgin Group) Sir Richard Branson has sent a letter to President Obama opposing the British Airways/American Airlines “virtual merger”.
Press release:
finance.yahoo.com/news/Virgin-Atlantics-Sir-Richard-prnews-3401685433.html?x=0&.v=1
Virgin Atlantic to cut 600 jobs, O’Hare for winter
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) will cut capacity by seven percent for the coming winter season, including dropping Chicago O’Hare for the winter season. This will lead to the elimination of 600 jobs or eight percent of the workforce.
Full details:
uk.biz.yahoo.com/01072009/399/virgin-atlantic-cut-600-jobs.html
Is Virgin Atlantic getting ready to dump the 787?
Virgin Atlantic Airways (London) is in discussions with Airbus to possibly acquire upwards of 50 Airbus A350s. It is unlikely the company would keep its 787-9 order if it also orders a large number of A350s.
Further details:
www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idINLM70363120090622?rpc=44
