The Airbus A350 is one of the most exciting planes in the sky. It’s not just because it looks like an aerodynamic racoon, either. The plane is part of the “next gen” aircraft, made of better materials which allow for more natural air pressure, more comfortable humidity, higher ceilings and all sorts of passenger friendly perks. In the case of Virgin Atlantic, it’s even got a “loo with a view” and all new loft bar, in addition to brand new seats in every cabin.
After bringing the first four A350 deliveries to New York JFK, Virgin Atlantic has now detailed the next four routes to receive the stunning new aircraft. It’s exciting times, indeed.
By August 2020, 5 Virgin Atlantic destinations will be served by the game changing Airbus A350-1000. Lagos, San Francisco, Los Angeles and Johannesburg will join New York with daily service.
The planes will feature the brand new Upper Class Suite, Loft Bar, Premium Economy and Economy, which is broken up into Light, Classic and Delight. Here’s a review of the new Upper Class, in case you’re curious…
Introducing a “light” economy fare has allowed Virgin to compete on price with increasingly popular budget airlines, offering fares as low as £260 return to top US destinations, with food, entertainment and drinks still included, which the others don’t.
- March 2020: Johannesburg will debut the A350 with a daily service
- April 2020: The A350 will fly daily to Los Angeles
- May 2020: There will be a daily A350 service to San Francisco
- August 2020: Lagos will be a daily A350 service.
- Present: New York offers 4x daily A350 flights.
This is fantastic news for passengers in every cabin, thanks to the jet lag reducing benefits these planes offer, not to mention Virgin’s new seats. Virgin Atlantic appears closer than ever to potentially joining SkyTeam in the coming year, with increased cooperation and mileage earning options with KLM, Air France, Delta and more, in addition to the launch of Virgin Connect for regional European lights. 2020 is clearly going to be a big year.
It’s a shame it’s coming to Los Angeles. The VS 787-9 premium economy seat is much more comfortable than on the A350-1000. Having flown both aircraft this week, the difference is substantial. If buying premium economy I’ll have to find another way to fly the route.
These are flights ex LHR?
Would recommend
Men’s to Virgin Airlines to look at DFW to LHR. One world has all flight tied up. Pricing is very high. This is a Cartel type pricing. Mr Branson please check out DFW as a destination. Need competition on this route.