Virgin Atlantic will launch a new London Heathrow (LHR) to Las Vegas (LAS) service beginning March 31, 2019. The carrier is moving its existing London Gatwick–Las Vegas flight to Heathrow Terminal 3, consolidating operations at its main London hub.
Previously operated from Gatwick with a Boeing 747, the route will now be flown using a Boeing 787-9. The Dreamliner offers fewer overall seats but a higher proportion of premium seating, reflecting growing demand from business and conference travelers. Las Vegas ranks among the world’s largest convention and conference destinations, and Virgin Atlantic previously trialed Heathrow connections to CES last year with flights carrying technology sector passengers.
The 787-9 configuration for this route includes 31 Upper Class seats, 35 Premium seats and 192 Economy seats. Scheduled departure from London is 12:40 p.m., with the return leaving Las Vegas at 7:05 p.m. Tickets went on sale May 19, with fares starting from £369 per person (approximately $429.80 at the time).
Shai Weiss, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic, said the additional Heathrow services will make travel to Las Vegas and Boston easier from spring 2019. He noted the new flights are timed to provide convenient onward connections for both UK and US passengers and will include the airline’s signature service, a three-course meal and in-flight entertainment. The airline also confirmed the return of its seasonal Heathrow–Barbados service to give holidaymakers more options.