Suite Life
With its new aircraft, Virgin Atlantic adds (even more) comfort and luxury to the skies
VIRGIN ATLANTIC RECENTLY unveiled the interior design for its Airbus A330neo aircraft. It includes a restyled Upper Class cabin with new seating that features the latest version of The Loft, the airline’s social space, and the introduction of The Retreat Suite, which the airline calls “the most spacious suite in Virgin Atlantic’s history.”
The Retreat Suite offers a 27-inch touch screen, a seat that extends to a 6’7” fully flat bed, and an ottoman that can double as an extra seat, providing room for up to four guests. In addition to the two exclusive Retreat Suites at the front of the cabin, 30 new Upper Class suites—each with a fully closing privacy door and “do not disturb” feature— include 17.3-inch touch screens and passenger-controlled mood lighting.
The airline has adapted its popular concept The Loft, with four seats offering space for up to eight guests to relax with refreshments from the self-service fridge and drinks dispenser. The Loft is equipped with dual panoramic touch screens and wireless charging facilities. The aircraft configuration also includes 46 seats in premium economy, 28 Economy Delight seats with a 34-inch pitch, and 156 economy seats that offer a 31-inch pitch.
The aircraft will make its debut customer flight in early October, on the carrier’s Boston route. The first three A330neos will be delivered this month, with remaining deliveries between 2023 and 2026.
The airline has placed orders for up to 16 of the aircraft to be equipped with Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines. The engines greatly increase fuel efficiency and promise a 50-percent quieter airport noise contour.
“We’re proud to show the evolution of our customer experience,” says Corneel Koster, chief customer and operating officer at Virgin Atlantic. “The A330neo plays a significant role in our fleet transformation, demonstrating our commitment to the planet.”