Virgin Atlantic

www.virgin-atlantic.com

Types of Travelers

Business Travlers

4/5

Great business class service and large baggage allowance

Family Traveler

4/5

Dedicated television and game stations appropriate for children

Backpacker
Adventure Traveler

4/5

Interesting destinations

Student
Budget Traveler

4/5

Competitive pricing for long haul flights

Elderly
Disabled Traveler

4/5

Good accessibility

Long Term Traveler

4/5

Good service to adventure destinations

Novice Traveler

3/5

Decently user-friendly

Introduction

Virgin Atlantic is based in the United Kingdom and offers flights to destinations in North America, Asia, the Caribbean, Australia, the Middle East and Africa. It is primarily known for its long-haul flights to and from London. The airline was formed in 1984 and soon after bought by famed entrepreneur Richard Branson. The airline grew and expanded over the follwong decade, focusing on long-haul flights from London. Singapore Airlines bought a 49% share of the Virgin Atlantic in 2000.

Despite a price-fixing allegations and a less-than-cordial relationship with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic has a good image amongst fliers. It has been featured in films, including the latest James Bond films, and helped advertise for London’s 2012 Olympic host bid. The airline is obviously most useful to U.K.-based fliers, though fliers bound for mainland Europe also choose this airline.

Ratings

Important Factors 4/5

Average Delay

26%

Cancelled Flights
(average per month)

Less than 2%

Customer Satisfaction Rating

4 out of 5 stars

Types of Aircraft

Airbus A330-300; A340-300; A340-600; A380-800; Boeing 747-400; 787-9

General 4/5

Number of Domestic Flights (Daily)

Number of International Flights (Daily)

Size of Fleet

Major Airports and Destinations Served

New York, Los Angeles, Hong Kong, Boston, London

Location of Hub

London Gatwick Airport and London Heathrow Airport

Countries Served

England, Australia, Hong Kong, US, Puerto Rico, South Africa and Europe

Number of Routes

Most Popular Routes

London-New York; Los Angeles-London; Orlando-London; London-Orlando

In-Flight 4/5

Which Routes offer Meal Service?

Most international flights

Food Quality

Above average (gluten free and kosher available)

In-flight Menu

Salad, hot meal, dessert and complimentary beverages (including bar)

Average Leg Room

30-33

Types of In-flight Entertainment

SeatBack Magazine, Movies, Television, Audio, internet

Baggage 4/5

Baggage Fees

None

Number of Bags Allowed

1 for economy, 2 for premium economy, 3 for first class

Weight Limits and Restrictions

23 kg per bag

Web Site 4/5

Online Check-in

Yes

Web Site Usability

Very good

Special Needs 4/5

Handicap Accessibility

Standard accessibility

Pets

Only to some destinations. Excess baggage fees apply

Special Offers /Partners 4/5

Airline Alliance Membership

None, miles earned on other members of Virgin group

Hotel Partners

n/a

Competing Airlines

British Airways, Continental, American

Strengths

Competitive prices on long haul routes
Good in-flight service
Great entertainment
Few extra fees

Weaknesses

No airline alliance
Only flies from major cities in the US

Frequent Flier Program and Airport Lounges

Virgin Atlantic’s frequent flier program is called the Flying Club. Members can earn miles on Virgin Atlantic flights and all flights on other Virgin group airlines. Miles can also be earned on Singapore Airlines, Air China and BMI. Retail partners like Apple also make it possible to earn miles from purchases. Gold members (the highest tier) have free access to VA’s Clubhouse Lounges as well as priority boarding. Virgin Atlantic’s lounges are called Clubhouse Lounges. They are located at the main airports used by the airline.

Conclusion

Virgin Atlantic is an important member of the Virgin airline group that includes Virgin America and Virgin Blue. It is known for its user-friendliness and hip image. On long haul flights, this London-based carrier is among the best when it comes to both price and service. However, other airlines that fly between the US and Europe often have more scheduled flights and more promotions. Still, Virgin is the obvious choice for people flying into and out of London or visiting Europe. Its great in-flight experience more than makes up for any shortcomings.