Virgin Atlantic has announced free streaming-quality Wi-Fi across its entire fleet, the expansion of premium cabin offerings, and a complete refurbishment of its Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
The airline will become the first UK carrier to provide free, unlimited, streaming-quality Wi-Fi across its fleet, using Starlink, the satellite technology developed by SpaceX.
The rollout will begin in Q3 2026 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
RELATED: ‘We're Back!’ Sir Richard Branson Celebrates Virgin Atlantic's Return to Toronto
"We exist to make our customers smile, it’s that simple – obsessing over finding new ways to delight our guests." said Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic.
Access to the upgraded Wi-Fi service will be available to all passengers who register for Virgin Atlantic’s Flying Club loyalty program.
Upgraded Fleet with More Premium Seating
The airline is also revamping its fleet, both through new aircraft and major refurbishments:
All Boeing 787-9 aircraft will be reconfigured starting in 2028, reducing economy seats while significantly expanding premium seating. Each 787-9 will include:
- 44 Upper Class seats (up from 31)
- 56 Premium seats (up from 35)
- 8 Retreat Suites, the airline’s most luxurious seating option
Ten additional A330neo aircraft, entering the fleet beginning Q3 2026, will feature:
- 48 Upper Class seats
- 56 Premium seats
- 6 Retreat Suites per aircraft (up from 2)
The new configurations will add over 400 Upper Class seats daily across key routes to and from North America, including New York, Boston, Miami, and Orlando.
Loyalty and Technology Upgrades
Virgin Atlantic will launch a redesigned mobile app in December 2025, offering an integrated travel experience for both flights and vacation packages. It includes personalized notifications and travel guidance, and will serve as a digital companion throughout the journey.
The airline will also debut a new AI-powered voice concierge, developed in partnership with OpenAI and Tomoro.ai.
The real-time assistant will be available in multiple languages via the app, helping guests with tasks from booking support to airport navigation.
To better recognize long-term loyalty, Flying Club will introduce a new program for guests who are loyal over multiple years but may not travel frequently enough to reach elite status.
RELATED: Virgin Atlantic Names Stephen Goulding as Canada Country Manager, Announces New Toronto-London Service
Hospitality Enhancements
Virgin Atlantic will invest in refurbishing its flagship Clubhouses at London Heathrow and New York JFK, following the successful launch of its new lounge at LAX earlier this year.
The airline also announced the introduction of Votary skincare products in Upper Class amenity kits starting in 2026, as well as new food and drink creations like the “Cherry Pie in the Sky” ice cream and “The Red Head” cocktail.
Looking Ahead
Virgin Atlantic says it remains committed to its mission of becoming the most loved travel company, underpinned by a $17 billion investment in a next-generation, fuel-efficient fleet with an average aircraft age of under seven years by 2028.
"Our announcements today provide a snapshot into the future of how we care, serve, and delight every single one of our guests," said Siobhan Fitzpatrick, Chief Experience Officer at Virgin Atlantic. "Every new product, partnership and platform unveiled has been shaped by guest insight and fuelled by our people’s ingenuity."
Weiss added, “The best is yet to come.”
Topics From This Article to Explore
