Virgin Atlantic CEO highlights airline’s growth strategy during trade mission to India

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Virgin Atlantic CEO highlights airline’s growth strategy during trade mission to India

Policy

Shai Weiss, Virgin Atlantic CEO | flightglobalevents.com

By Sky Industry News

Oct 12, 2025

Virgin Atlantic CEO Shai Weiss recently traveled to Mumbai as part of a trade mission alongside UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Business Secretary Peter Kyle. The visit was aimed at supporting the airline's continued growth in India and highlighting its role in the upcoming UK-India trade deal.

Weiss used LinkedIn to announce his participation in the trip, describing India as a rapidly transforming market. He stated, "The world’s fourth-largest economy is rapidly transforming and the opportunity in India is huge. As a premium British flag carrier we’re ready to support economic growth unlocked by the £4.8bn UK-India Trade Deal, connecting businesses, tourists, families and cargo. It's an honor to be part of the visit, especially as 2025 marks Virgin Atlantic’s 25th year of flying to India."

Virgin Atlantic is celebrating 25 years of operations in India, which has become its third-largest market outside the United Kingdom and the United States. The airline currently offers five daily nonstop flights to Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. Its partnership with IndiGo allows connections to 36 additional Indian cities.

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Weiss also mentioned recent developments in partnerships over the summer. Delta Air Lines and Air France-KLM have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Virgin Atlantic. This agreement is expected to facilitate a broader partnership with IndiGo, potentially linking all four of the world's largest economies through their networks.

During his flight on a British Airways aircraft, Weiss made light of the situation by ordering a Virgin Mary cocktail, referencing Virgin Atlantic's branding.

The meeting and associated events underscore growing ties between Indian and UK aviation sectors. Collaboration among airlines is seen as beneficial for customers due to increased convenience.

Despite its strengths in long-haul markets, Virgin Atlantic faces challenges due to its limited short-haul network and relies heavily on partners for feeder traffic both in India and the United States.