UK supports two full-service carriers unlike any other European country

Virgin Atlantic's history began in 1984 when Randolph Fields and Alan Hellary founded British Atlantic Airways. After initial setbacks, they partnered with Richard Branson who rebranded it as Virgin Atlantic. The airline quickly gained traction, launching its first flight between Gatwick and Newark Liberty International Airport on June 22nd, 1984.

The rivalry between British Airways and Virgin Atlantic intensified when Virgin entered Heathrow's market. British Airways attempted to undermine Virgin's reputation through what became known as the "dirty tricks" campaign, resulting in a lawsuit that Virgin won.

Despite financial challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, Virgin Atlantic secured over $1.3 billion to avoid bankruptcy and introduced cargo operations for additional revenue. Today, it remains an influential legacy carrier alongside British Airways.

The success of both airlines highlights how competition benefits customers by offering more options and potentially lower fares.