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Virgin Atlantic placed an order for 7 additional Airbus A330-900neo aircraft as it works to complete its fleet renewal. These new aircraft will enable the airline to fully replace its A330-300 fleet with the more efficient A330-900. The new order will bring the total A330-900 fleet at Virgin to 19 aircraft, with 3 deliveries expected later this year and 4 more in 2026.
After its fleet renewal is completed in 2028, Virgin Atlantic will have a fleet of 19 A330-900s, 12 A350-1000s, and 14 Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with each of the 45 the most recent next generation models with strong fuel efficiency and environmental performance.
The order was announced during the Farnborough Airshow onboard Virgin Atlantic’s A330neo, named ‘Ruby Rebel’, and registered as GB-VSRB after founder Sir Richard Branson, to celebrate the airline’s 40th anniversary.
Shai Weiss, CEO, Virgin Atlantic said, “Today, we complete our multi-billion-dollar fleet transformation, with the purchase of seven additional A330-900s, which we know our customers and our people love to fly. Flying the youngest fleet is the most readily available and significant lever towards decarbonising long-haul aviation and we are proud to already operate one of the youngest and most fuel and carbon efficient fleets across the Atlantic.”
“Our special partnership with Airbus began with the arrival of ‘Lady in Red’ in 1993, with our most recent arrival, ‘Ruby Rebel’, arriving to mark our 40th birthday this year. Virgin Atlantic has flown more than 60 Airbus tails in the last three decades. While not first to the party, they’ve been our main dance partner, making our customers smile ever since.”
Airbus Chief Executive Officer, Commercial Aircraft, Christian Scherer said, “We are grateful for Virgin Atlantic’s decision to expand its A330neo fleet as part of its strategy to have the youngest fleet across the Atlantic. The A330neo not only delivers unbeatable operational seat mile cost and an exceptional passenger experience, it also greatly enhances Virgin Atlantic’s fleet efficiency and contributes to their sustainability journey. We look forward to continuing this smooth and successful collaboration for many years to come.”
