Virgin Atlantic to add 30% more premium seats
প্রকাশ: সোমবার । সেপ্টেম্বর ২৮, ২০২৬
Virgin Atlantic is preparing a wide-ranging upgrade of its cabins, onboard Wi-Fi, and airport lounges, with changes due between 2026 and 2028, according to aviation website Aviation A2Z.
The airline expects to have about 30 percent more Business Class and Premium Economy seats over the next four years, the report said, citing indications from Virgin Atlantic executives.
Ten Airbus A330-900neo aircraft will join the fleet from the third quarter of 2026. Each is planned to have 48 Upper Class seats, six Retreat Suites, and 56 Premium seats.
The airline will also keep 14 of its 17 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners and give them a full cabin refurbishment from 2028. The redesigned aircraft are expected to have 44 Upper Class seats, eight Retreat Suites, and 56 Premium seats. The first refurbished 787-9 is due in service by the end of 2028, subject to technology, certification, and supply-chain requirements.
On connectivity, Starlink is already available across Virgin Atlantic's Airbus A350 fleet. The Boeing 787s are being fitted during 2026, with the A330neos to follow in 2027. The airline plans to offer free high-speed Wi-Fi across its entire fleet by 2027.
On the ground, Virgin Atlantic has completed the first phase of a refurbishment of its Clubhouse at London Heathrow, which added areas including the Gallery, work pods, a cinema, and new wellness facilities. Further investment is planned for the Heathrow Clubhouse and the one at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. The JFK upgrade is due no later than 2028, although the airline hopes to finish it sooner.
Flying Club members can already use Virgin Points for eligible Delta Air Lines-operated reward flights, subject to Delta's availability. Virgin Atlantic is exploring better reciprocal award availability with Delta, but no changes or timeline have been announced.
Source: Aviation A2Z