Virgin Atlantic has entered a financing arrangement in which it mortgaged part of its slot portfolio at London Heathrow for $330 million, drawing scrutiny from UK aviation regulators and government authorities. The financing move was reportedly designed to fund shareholder dividends, in particular payments to U.S. partner Delta Air Lines.
London Heathrow Airport has reached new heights in slot valuation, with recent transactions pushing prices as high as $75 million for coveted takeoff and landing rights. The airport’s significance as one of the world’s busiest hubs, coupled with its constrained capacity, has turned slots into highly prized strategic assets for airlines seeking to expand or maintain their presence…
A Virgin Atlantic flight bound for Seattle made an unscheduled diversion after its Airbus A330-900 (A330neo)experienced airspeed irregularities at cruising altitude. Operating as flight VS105, the aircraft had departed London Heathrow and was at 35,000 feet over Scotland when the flight crew observed concerning fluctuations in indicated airspeed ranging between 450 and 550 mph.
Alaska Airlines has filed a legal request with a Georgia federal court seeking permission to obtain discovery from Delta Air Lines in connection with an ongoing trademark dispute in the United Kingdom involving Virgin Group. The move underscores the legal complexity arising from the competitive and branding relationships among the three airline groups.
Virgin Atlantic has officially joined the Boeing Landing Gear Exchange Program, a move that reinforces its long-term maintenance strategy for the B787-9 Dreamliner fleet. The agreement will ensure the UK-based carrier has access to 17 fully overhauled and certified landing gear assemblies, with support set to begin in 2026.
Virgin Atlantic, the UK-based international airline, has released its financial results for 2024, showcasing a year of profitability and financial health. The airline reported total revenues of US$4.2 billion and a Profit Before Tax and Exceptional Items of $25.8 million.
Joby Aviation (US) has announced a strategic partnership with Virgin Atlantic (UK) to introduce an air taxi service in the UK, marking a significant milestone in urban air mobility. This collaboration aims to redefine regional and city-based transportation with electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft.
Virgin Atlantic, the UK-based long-haul carrier, has expanded its fleet with the delivery of a new Airbus A330-900, identified by serial number 2077. This state-of-the-art aircraft is powered by Trent 7000-72 engines, reinforcing the airline’s focus on efficiency and sustainability in its operations.
Volofin Capital Management (UK) has announced the successful structuring and closing of a spares inventory financing facility for Virgin Atlantic (UK). The facility, valued at up to $100 million, will support Virgin Atlantic in managing and optimizing its aircraft spare parts inventory.
Virgin Atlantic has announced the cancellation of its planned London Heathrow-Accra route, which was set to commence on May 1, 2025. The decision reflects adjustments in Virgin Atlantic’s route strategy as the airline reassesses its network plans. The Heathrow-Accra service was expected to connect the UK and Ghana directly, serving a significant market for business and leisure travelers…
