Virgin Atlantic Airways
United Kingdom · VIRGIN

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- ›Virgin Atlantic was founded by Sir Richard Branson and commenced operations on 22 June 1984.
- ›Delta Air Lines owns 51% of Virgin Atlantic, with the Virgin Group retaining 49%.
- ›The airline was among the first to introduce a dedicated premium economy cabin class.
- ›Virgin Atlantic is a founding member of the SkyTeam-affiliated joint venture with Delta and Air France-KLM.
- ›The airline filed for and completed a restructuring process in 2020 following the financial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Virgin Atlantic Airways was founded by Richard Branson in 1984, launching as a disruptive force against established carriers on transatlantic routes. Headquartered at London Gatwick and with a major hub at London Heathrow, the airline has grown into a globally recognized carrier known for its innovative cabin products and distinctive brand personality. A joint venture partnership with Delta Air Lines and a stake held by Air France-KLM have strengthened its international network considerably.
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Virgin Atlantic operates a modern twin-engine widebody fleet composed primarily of Airbus A330s, A350s, and Boeing 787 Dreamliners, having retired its Boeing 747s in 2020.
AI-assisted overview, verified against public sources.
Primary hubs
Route network map (195 legs)












Route network
Fleet (aircraft types operated)
Virgin Atlantic, a trading name of Virgin Atlantic Airways Limited and Virgin Atlantic International Limited, is a British airline with its head office in Crawley, West Sussex, England. The airline was established in 1984 as British Atlantic Airways, and was originally planned by its co-founders Randolph Fields and Alan Hellary to fly between London and the Falkland Islands. Soon after changing the name to Virgin Atlantic Airways, Fields sold his shares in the company to Richard Branson in return for unlimited free travel. Its maiden flight from London–Gatwick to Newark took place on 22 June 1984.
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