Virgin Atlantic recently took delivery of their newest and greenest aircraft product, the Airbus A330-900neo. This aircraft is a gamechanger for Virgin Atlantic offering enhancements to the onboard product that benefit every passenger especially those booked in the Upper Class cabin. Virgin Atlantic was kind enough to showcase the A330-900neo product including Upper Class in its entirety at New York JFK international airport. The A330neo is 11% less fuel burn compared to the older Airbus A330-300 making it not only the newest product but also the greenest.
Ground Experience
The New York to London market is one of the most competitive premium markets with many airlines competing against each other to offer passengers a premium experience. For Upper Class passengers, there is a dedicated ticketing area and lounge available in New York and London. New York has a Lounge for Upper Class passengers called the Clubhouse. It is located post security in Terminal 5 conveniently located near Virgin Atlantic’s gates. The Clubhouse has various seating options including 2 and 4 person tables, couches and swanky seating built into the wall structure. There are bar and shower areas available. If fancying a game of pool, there is a full sized pool table located near the center of the lounge. Throughout the visit there are passed hors d’oeuvres.
Onboard Experience The Loft
Stepping aboard, it immediately comes apparent that this is not your typical aircraft cabin. A social space called The Loft greets passengers with a welcoming social space equipped with couches, a fridge, freezer and two large screens with Bluetooth connectivity and wireless chargers. In the event of turbulent weather conditions there are seatbelts located in the couch cushions. This space is available on a first come first serve basis. This space is an ideal location for passengers looking to socialize away from their seat and even interact with crewmembers on a more personalized level.
Onboard Experience Upper Class Suites
Located in the very front of the Airbus A330-900neo are two special suites called the Retreat Suite. These seats feature a large 27″ touchscreen TV, USB, AC and wireless charging as well as 22″ of seat width and a fully flat 6″7′ bed. The Retreat Suite can transform into a social space in only a matter of minutes with the help of the cabin crew. Located near the TV screen is an ottoman that can be used as an additional seat. The center divider can be lowered merging the two Retreat Suites into a single large suite. Tables can be connected allowing for sharing a meal or getting some work done. As with the other Upper Class suites, the Retreat Suite features a closable door and do not disturb function. This suite may be ideal for those traveling together or for those looking for a bit more space than an Upper Class Suite. Passengers in Upper Class can upgrade to the Retreat for 200 pounds 2 weeks prior to departure.
Onboard Experience Upper Class Suites
There are 30 Upper Class Suites that are configured in a 1-2-1 configuration. Each suite features a 22″ wide seat, 17.8 touchscreen TV with Bluetooth connectivity and a fully lie flat bed. As with the Retreat Suite there are fully enclosable doors with a do not disturb function. All seats in the Upper Class have direct access to the isle. Upper Class Suites have an abundance of storage including shoe and in seat storage. Both the Retreat Suite and Upper Class Suite provide a competitive offering in the lucrative premium heavy transatlantic market.
