Virgin Atlantic has unveiled its new Upper Class suite, introduced this summer on the airline’s Airbus A350-1000 aircraft.
The carrier is replacing its current herringbone Upper Class layout—where seats angle toward the cabin—with a modern 1-2-1 configuration that places seats facing outward toward the windows. Each seat offers a 44-inch pitch and converts into an 82-inch fully flat bed, providing more personal space and comfort for long-haul travelers.
Virgin Atlantic explains that “all suites will transition seamlessly from an upright seat, straight to a bed,” allowing passengers to remain seated while the seat converts without having to stand and manually adjust it. The suites feature an 18.5-inch in-flight entertainment (IFE) screen that can be controlled via personal devices, plus a deployable privacy screen for added seclusion.
Upper Class passengers will also have access to a new onboard social space called The Loft, equipped with a 32-inch television and Bluetooth connectivity for individual headsets, creating a relaxed area to socialize or unwind away from the seat cabin.
Beyond Upper Class, Virgin Atlantic is refreshing its premium and economy cabins. Premium seats receive larger IFE screens and increased storage, while economy benefits from updated upholstery and improved fabrics. Additionally, all passengers across cabins will be able to connect to high-speed onboard internet.
Mark Anderson, executive vice president customer at Virgin Atlantic, said the A350 rollout represents an evolution of the airline’s customer experience. He emphasized that flying should be enjoyable whether it is a passenger’s first or hundredth flight, and that the updated A350 interiors are designed to offer something distinct. The A350 program is a central element of the airline’s fleet transformation strategy, aimed at delivering a younger, cleaner, and more efficient fleet. By 2022, Virgin Atlantic expects its fleet to be among the newest and most environmentally friendly in operation, improving passenger experience, reducing environmental impact, and enhancing route economics.