Virgin Atlantic

Rapper Rick Ross outfitted his estimated $40 million Gulfstream G550 private jet with Starlink internet service. SpaceX highlighted Starlink as its key technology, noting that several major airlines have adopted it and considering using a less convenient flight path to ensure connectivity. The service allows users, such as Ross, to maintain phone calls and streaming while airborne.

SpaceX president Gwynne Shotwell stated that some customers are choosing shorter flights with Starlink capabilities over direct options. MrBeast mentioned he would prioritize Starlink-equipped flights even with layovers, though 13 contacted airlines did not confirm this behavior. SpaceX announced new Starlink partnerships with American Airlines, Southwest, Virgin Atlantic, Iberia, and Aer Lingus.

Virgin Atlantic's Royal Box is an invite-only 'lounge-within-a-lounge' at London Heathrow Airport, opening in March 2026 as the second location after Los Angeles. It caters to celebrities and high-tier travelers, reflecting a broader industry trend of exclusive, personalized airport experiences.

An aircraft technician was killed inside a plane’s fuel tank when heavy machinery collapsed on him at London’s Heathrow Airport. Georgie Buxton, 23, died while working at Virgin Atlantic just two years after starting his technician role.

Delta Air Lines will launch direct flights to Saudi Arabia in October, the first by a US carrier in 25 years, ahead of the Future Investment Initiative. Ticket sales have been slower due to the Iran conflict, but Delta remains optimistic, while other airlines like Virgin Atlantic and Air Canada have canceled similar routes.

Virgin Atlantic and Joby announced a partnership to offer air-taxi rides via the airline's app or website, enabling customers to travel from London Heathrow to central London in 8 minutes. The service, expected to cost $130–$160 per seat, will also expand to Manchester Airport and Leeds. Joby's electric vertical-takeoff-and-landing aircraft aim to operate over cities with reduced noise.

Lawmakers introduced a bill to ban in-flight phone and video calls, supported by former flight attendants who cite passenger and crew disruptions. The Quiet Skies Act would require the FAA to finalize the ban within 180 days, though airlines like British Airways and Virgin Atlantic currently allow such calls with Starlink WiFi.

NDLEA arrested a Nigerian-British woman at Lagos Airport while she attempted to board a Virgin Atlantic flight to London with 13kg of cocaine. The arrest occurred on June 28, and authorities also recovered large tramadol consignments.

Uddin Ifeanyi discusses a conversation with his daughter about a Virgin Atlantic flight from Lagos to London, referencing a national campaign highlighting 'hardship' in the country. The article questions the narrative around government representation.

Virgin Atlantic was named 'best airline in Europe' at the Passenger Experience Awards. A Scandinavian carrier received the award for 'comfiest seats'.

The 2026 APEX Best Awards named Virgin Atlantic as the top airline in Europe. The awards recognize the world's best airlines.

The 2026 APEX Best Awards named Virgin Atlantic as the top airline in Europe. The awards recognize the world's best airlines.

A British man sustained severe burns to his genital area after hot coffee spilled from an airplane tray table during a Virgin Atlantic flight. He is now seeking compensation for the 'life-changing' injuries.

Virgin Atlantic has become the latest airline to provide staff with autism training to improve the flying experience for neurodivergent passengers. This move aims to create a more inclusive and accommodating environment for passengers with autism. The training is part of a broader effort by airlines to enhance customer experience.

A Virgin Atlantic stewardess crashed her car on the way to the airport after a night of drinking wine and tried to board a flight to Barbados while being four times over the limit. The incident raises concerns about the safety and responsibility of airline staff. The stewardess's actions put herself and others at risk.

Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss stated the aviation industry cannot sustain current jet fuel prices, leading to ticket price increases of up to £360. The airline attributes rising costs to volatile fuel prices, which are straining operational budgets and forcing fare hikes.

Virgin Atlantic has raised ticket prices by up to £360, citing warnings about potential jet fuel shortages linked to the Iran war. The price increase reflects growing concerns over fuel supply disruptions amid geopolitical tensions. Travelers face higher costs as airlines navigate the impact of global conflicts on operations.