Virgin Atlantic Airways became the first European airline to take delivery of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. Named “Birthday Girl” in honor of the carrier’s 30th anniversary, this aircraft is the first of 16 Boeing 787-9s ordered by Virgin Atlantic. At more than 20 feet longer than the 787-8, the 787-9 carries up to 40 additional passengers and offers a range of passenger-focused features such as larger windows, spacious overhead bins, advanced LED lighting, increased cabin humidity, a lower cabin altitude, improved air filtration and a smoother ride. The new Dreamliner will initially operate between London Heathrow Airport and Boston Logan International Airport.
“The first 787-9 in Europe will serve as a flagship for Virgin Atlantic’s fleet and deliver significant efficiency gains across its network,” said Todd Nelp, vice president of European sales at Boeing. “With its distinctive onboard features, the aircraft will elevate the passenger experience and reinforce Virgin Atlantic’s reputation as an industry innovator.”