Quantcast

Virgin Atlantic announces major upgrades including free Starlink Wi-Fi

Virgin Atlantic announces major upgrades including free Starlink Wi-Fi
Research
Webp r9y2lq4mcr9lvdds2w5641ajppd8
Zach Griff Senior reporter | The Points Guy

Virgin Atlantic has announced significant upgrades to its passenger experience, including the introduction of free Starlink Wi-Fi across its entire fleet. The airline is partnering with Elon Musk's SpaceX to equip each aircraft with Starlink radomes, allowing passengers to stream content regardless of their cabin class. This service will require a Virgin Atlantic Flying Club loyalty account for access. Installations are set to begin in the third quarter of 2026 and are expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

The move makes Virgin Atlantic the first UK-based airline to offer this service, joining other international carriers like United Airlines and Qatar Airways in enhancing onboard connectivity. The decision to make Wi-Fi free may impact revenue streams, as Virgin previously charged up to $25 for full-flight passes.

Additionally, Virgin Atlantic is investing in more premium seating options on its Airbus A330-900neo fleet. The new layout will include six Retreat Suites, 42 Upper Class pods, 56 Premium recliners, and 128 economy seats. These changes aim to meet growing demand for premium products at London Heathrow Airport, where Virgin has its global hub.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Virgin also plans significant upgrades for its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fleet starting in 2028. These jets will receive enhanced seating across all cabins, featuring eight Retreat Suites and other premium options.

Furthermore, Virgin Atlantic intends to refurbish its flagship lounges in London and New York with multimillion-pound investments over the coming months.

Other enhancements include a new mobile app launching in December and collaboration with OpenAI and Tomoro.ai on an AI-powered concierge service called Virgin Atlantic Concierge. New loyalty tiers will be introduced for long-term travelers, although specific details have yet to be disclosed.

Virgin's updates reflect a broader strategy focusing on premium offerings while maintaining appeal through complimentary services like Starlink Wi-Fi.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

United Airlines is set to expand its Premium Plus cabin in response to increasing demand for premium economy seats.

Jul 19, 2025

Emirates, the leading operator of Airbus A380 superjumbo jets, continues to find success with this aircraft as a flagship of its fleet.

Jul 19, 2025

An Antonov An-124 aircraft, owned by Antonov Airlines, has departed from Kyiv, Ukraine, after being grounded for over three years.

Jul 19, 2025

An Air China Airbus A350 and an SF Airlines Boeing 767-300ER were involved in a near-miss incident over Russian airspace.

Jul 19, 2025

Airbus is set to start equipping fuselages for its A321 aircraft in China.

Jul 19, 2025

For over five decades, the Boeing 747 has captured the attention of aviation enthusiasts and professionals.

Jul 19, 2025