Boarding took place via two entrances to the aircraft: one for Upper Class passengers and a rear door for Premium and economy passengers. Less than one week before launching A350 service, Virgin unveiled its brand-new amenity kits, called "Goodie Bags." I really liked the sturdy tray table that folded out of the outer armrest. I found the salad to be absolutely delightful. Tip: Not well publicised, if you have the paid version of the Virgin Atlantic Credit Card, you can sign up for free Boingo WiFi to use onboard, unlimited. I chose a Brewdog Lost lager with my meal. Virgin Atlantic A330neo Plane From NYC to London, Review With - Insider One of the many reasons I love daytime flights from New York to London is because the airport is usually quiet, with few international departures. I did the same journey to AUS on the 380 and back from LAX on the new plane. Related: Sorry, aisle-seat fans: The window seat is the best in the air. Next-generation efficiency, comfort and connectivity. With my paid fare, I was able to select my seat for free and chose a window seat in the last row of the cabin, so I could both look out the window, and observe the service flow. Waiting for me on my seat when I boarded was a pillow, blanket and amenity kit. Even though no one was seated next to me, if someone had been, it would've felt cramped on a long-haul flight especially the armrests, which were on the narrow side. Virgin calls the kit the most sustainable in the skies, and it felt like it. Because it was free for everyone, I was worried that it would be on the slow side because of bandwidth issues. That's why I practically gasped when I saw the massive security queue awaiting me in Terminal 4. Our Dreamliners take efficiency to new heights. Virgin Airbus A350 | A350 Configuration | Virgin Atlantic Would we fly virgin premium again. However, my own personal issue with premium economy remains: You are seated upright for the duration of your journey. I found the footrest to be rather close in, but the added support was a huge win, especially on a long-haul flight. Other than that there was no storage around the seat. My journey on VS300 began in the evening at Terminal 3 of London Heathrow. BEN SMITHSON/THE POINTS GUY I can easily find comfort in Premium for an overnight. Service was fast and efficient, and everything appeared to be smooth. The basic amenity kit contained an eye-catching, Virgin-branded red eye mask, earplugs, a sustainable pen and a toothbrush with a tiny tube of toothpaste. But what was it really like? The cabin is laid out in a 3-3-3 arrangement and is Virgin's largest economy class barring that onboard the 747. Being Virgin Atlantic's largest passenger-carrying aircraft by length (73.8 meters long vs 62.8 for the 787-9 and 63.7 for the A330-300), the Airbus A350-1000 correspondingly has the largest capacity in the airline's fleet. The blanket also appeared the same as the one that was provided to economy passengers, although this wasn't such a big deal on a relatively short daytime flight. Shortly thereafter, it was time for tea service. It didn't have the luxurious feeling of a leather or solid kit, but it does the trick for me knowing that it was helping to reduce single-use plastics and be less harsh on the environment. It would have been great if the crew members could have mentioned how the meal should be eaten when they served it. Though the cake itself was on the dry side, the passion fruit icing really moved it along. It will use 306-seat A350-900s, of which it presently has three. Its inaugural operation was on the same route from LHR to JFK on Sept. 10, and it returned to London on the red-eye that night. Airbus A330-300 (333) Airbus A350-1000 (351) Boeing 747-400 (744) Boeing 787-9 (789) Check-in; Baggage . Menus were handed out during the boarding process and I could see there was a choice between a sausage, egg and cheese biscuit or a Belgian waffle with syrup. SeatGuru Seat Map Virgin Atlantic Virgin tends to release plenty of award tickets, especially in economy. Quality craftsmanship Austrian's B777-200 aircraft hold a total of 24 premium economy seats configured 2-4-2, while B767-300ERs contain 30 seats (expanded from 18) configured 2-2-2. The seat hadn't been cleaned properly, and I found crumbs on the leather upholstery, which is an issue I've found common across almost every carrier I've flown this year. Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy customers enjoy a dedicated Premium check in lane and are able to check two bags. And in this case, it was just about as good as it gets. Virgin Atlantic departs from Terminal 4 at JFK Airport, along with its partners, Delta and KLM (Air France departs from Terminal 1). Have you ever flown Virgin Atlantic in premium economy? There was also a bar with bartender service. The 730 seemed narrower. As far as food, there was a decent selection, both hot and cold. Note, 787 is on a different system,I think ipass. This was a brand-new aircraft for Virgin. Wi-Fi was available throughout the flight, with pricing from 2.40 pounds ($2.60) for a messaging-only option up to 16.80 pounds ($18) for the full-flight option. Unfortunately, they were quite cramped and there were no special amenities compared with economy lavatories. Offer ends 5/3/23. The "Cheapest" Way To Try Emirates First Class Is Back (Under $625)! In its folded position, most passengers had enough room to squeeze out to use the lavatory. I got the mozzarella and an English breakfast tea. The credit card offers that appear on the website are from credit card companies from which ThePointsGuy.com receives compensation. Emotional baggage is best left at your departure point. Virgin Atlantic: Airbus A350-1000 (351) 38: 18.5: On-Demand TV: All Seats: AC Power: Yes: Recliner: Virgin Atlantic: Boeing . 6x Marriott Bonvoy Points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program. They provided good sound quality while still feeling comfortable to wear. (Photo by Emily McNutt/The Points Guy.) But the real world doesnt often have the flexibility needed to enjoy those opportunities every time you fly, and you know what, it aint half bad. Originally from Australia, he is the primary points and miles writer for the U.K. site. The dish covers were still on, and the cutlery was lodged inside two drinking glasses, which were laying down on their side. Thats why we made sure our new aircraft is super comfortable, with the introduction of The Loft and The Booth in our Upper Class cabin, as well as super stylish. 6 points per dollar on eligible purchases at hotels participating in the Marriott Bonvoy program, 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, U.S. gas stations, wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and U.S. shipping, 2 points per dollar on all other eligible purchases, Earn a free-night award each card renewal month (up to 35,000 points), Receive 15 elite night credits to jump-start status, Must spend $60,000 in a year for second free-night award. Premium passengers were entitled to a generous two pieces of baggage, each up to 50 pounds in weight. Other than its tight width, the seat was comfortable. Rich, custom leather seats with a generous 7 inch recline and high end finishes. The A350 has a slightly tighter layout with a width of 18.5" vs 17.4" and the same pitch of 38" vs 31-34". Airbus A350-900 Seat Maps, Specs & Amenities | Delta Air Lines As usual, Virgin's dark cabin tones and purple mood lighting leave most awestruck upon boarding. His background in political science and economics gives him unique insight into issues surrounding international travel and governmental regulations. Given past trips with Virgin in premium economy, I was hopeful that the A350 would set the benchmark in this competitive market. Even at 6'3", my knees weren't even close to the seat in front. Prior to landing, the crew came through the cabin offering water or juice as a prearrival drink. After flying during the health crisis to mostly empty cabins, it was a joy to see that Upper Class was entirely full, and I had zero chance of an upgrade. Service is one of those things that can either make or break a flight. Virgin Atlantic Upper Class aboard A350-1000 is breath of fresh air While not a huge space, and definitely not enough to store a laptop, it was sufficient for my passport, AirPods and my phone. As a regular premium economy traveler, I remarked to the crew that Champagne was not usually served in these cabins. Our stunning new Upper Class suite is the perfect retreat at 30,000 feet. I decided on the fajita. During the course of the flight, crew members left out a small bin of chips and snacks for the taking in the galley. This New Aircraft Has Virgin Atlantic's First-ever 'Retreat Suites Each of the Collins Aerospace MiQ seats featured 38 inches of pitch and 7 inches of recline. Crew then distributed menus for the flight, which included drinks, main courses and the teatime selections. Virgin has remastered the premium economy experience with its Premium A350 product. Terms and Conditions Apply. first airline experience I reviewed for TPG, Watch TPG UK review all 3 cabins on Virgin Atlantic's brand-new Airbus A350, vocal supporter of jetlag-free daytime flights, Sorry, aisle-seat fans: The window seat is the best in the air, Choose this, not that: JFK Priority Pass lounge edition, Delta overhauls the onboard experience, goes all-in on sustainability, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. In April, Simple Flying had the chance to fly Virgin Atlantic's flagship Airbus A350-1000 from London to New Delhi. The Dreamliner tables were from the back of the passengers seat in from, and seemed more flexible. Virgin Atlantic offers 56 seats in a 2-4-2 layout on the A350, spread over seven rows. Terms and conditions | Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. . This means even more air mile earning and burning possibilities for members of its Mileage Plus frequent flyer program. This was a very large cabin for what is supposed to be a more exclusive product than regular economy, and it left me feeling like I was just another number at times. The Dreamliner gives what feels like a much bigger seat. Which airlines have the best premium economy? Flying from South Africa to the Uk in October 2021 my food tray broken when I told the cabin crew I was told we dont have the tools onboard to fix this problem economy class on my return in February 2023 I decided to check my seat and food tray and get comfortable food tray fine seat broken as I was told on my way out of Africa we dont have tools onboard I did not contact cabin crew needless to say when I could not put my seat in an upright position cabin not impressed with me my thinking was they dont have the tool to fix it Economy class not very impressed, I think a lot of people dont realise that Virgin actually shrunk the size of their premium economy seat when they brought out the A350. There was a small footrest that could be lowered so I could rest my feet on it. Instead, other passengers and I were able to FaceTime with friends and family on the ground. Premium, upgraded: A review of Virgin Atlantic's new Premium product on The Countries Where You'll Get The Most Bang For Your U.S. Dollar, My (Successful) Virgin Atlantic Upgrade Strategy, British Airways Tier Points: Complete Guide To Earning And Status. Throughout the flight, crew kept the same positive attitude and smiles throughout their service a nice change from other, legacy carriers I've flown recently. Unfortunately, Virgin opted not to install leg rests on its A350 Premium seats, a surprising oversight and one that made this seat less ergonomic than those in other airlines' premium economy cabins. Proving that the very best cabins in the world could be unlocked with points became an obsession. Immediately upon boarding, cabin crew came around the Premium cabin with a choice of water or prosecco. The fleece material of the blanket felt almost worn, but I liked that the blanket had a special neck cutout, which made it easier to cover yourself in an upright position in Premium or economy. Now, while the -1000 is wider than the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner (2-3-2 layout), there isn't really enough space to add another seat without sacrificing the experience. Other main courses on this flight included stir-fried pork with vermicelli vegetable noodles and Beijing bean sauce, and chicken-and-mushroom casserole with buttered new potatoes and green beans. Even with the new aircraft, I didn't notice any signs the crew was unfamiliar with it. Though I didn't use it to sleep, I think it would have been more than sufficient. Enjoy Complimentary Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status with your Card. A crew member responded with a smile and told me, "We do things differently here at Virgin Atlantic!". You'll earn 15 elite night credits each calendar year, and receive automatic Gold elite status. Visit delta.com to learn more. Moving toward the middle of the plane, I next entered Virgin Atlantic's premium economy cabin known as Premium. Virgin Atlantic's new plane raises flying standards | The Sacramento Bee If I wanted people to take me seriously, I had to prove that every thing I was claiming could come true with points and travel savvy, could actually come true. It was a bifold tray table, which was perfect for just a small plate or to rest a drink. 4x points for purchases made at restaurants worldwide, at U.S. gas stations, on wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers and on U.S. purchases for shipping. Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPGs editors and is not influenced by the card issuer. Even for a premium economy snob which I am these seats are excellent. As to the food, Im the worst person to ask. Virgin also refreshed premium economy for the A350. VS should be entitled to compete for more slots at their base hub to provide some real competition! The Complete Guide to Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy - Scott's Cheap As someone who struggles to sleep sitting up, I don't fancy the thought of flying this on an overnight, long-haul journey to, say, South Africa. For my main, I ordered the vegetarian meal, asparagus and ricotta gnocchi with spicy tomato sauce, sweet peppers and broccoli. On the 730. /]. Virgin Atlantic Airbus A350-1000 Seat Maps Virgin Atlantic It would have taken the crew only a few seconds to tidy up the trays before serving them, but instead, passengers had to do it themselves. Economy Delight Premium Upper Class; Width of seat: 17.4 inches: 17.4 inches: 18.5 inches: 20 inches: Seat recline: 5 inches: 5 inches: . I headed to Gate 22 about 10 minutes before boarding was set to begin. Here's a review of the product. This flight did not change my earlier thoughts that premium economy is currently overpriced across the industry. Pitch remains the same, but the seat did lose some points due to the standard footrest in front, which doesn't offer the most room to stretch out when sleeping. Review: Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy (Airbus A330-300) Virgin Atlantic has a dedicated section of the terminal area for its passengers, including a priority queue for premium economy travelers. The premium economy seats measure 18.5" in width, a full 2.5" smaller than the 787-9s. I was served a tiny, dry bacon roll with no butter, sauce or other condiments, and a small bowl of plain yogurt with some berries and kiwi on top. The entre was the exact opposite, a dense, cheesy, sloppy dish overflowing with rice. When prices are competitive with economy, that alone can make the cabin worth the upgrade for anyone with lots of baggage. There was some issue with getting the service up and running to begin with, but once it was, about 45 minutes into the flight, it worked seamlessly. For starters, it was presented the wrong way around, with the dessert in the front rather than the appetizer salad. My flight departed slightly late but arrived early, as eastbound transatlantic flights often do because of strong tailwinds. . I'm torn about this. There were three lavatories in the Premium cabin, which I found to be a perfect number for the number of passengers on my flight. The PE offering was far better than BA and the crew were amazing. There's USB power and a 13 inch screen for our next-gen entertainment system, plus a lot more storage for your bits and pieces. Unlike passengers in Virgin's Upper Class cabin, those in the Premium cabin weren't entitled to enter the lounge, so my lounge experience isn't factored into the score of this section. The other dimensions of the seat were more generous, with 38 inches of legroom and 7 inches of recline, both fairly standard for premium economy. After we took off at about 1:49 p.m. and reached 10,000 feet, the crew quickly came around the cabin for drink service at about 2:05 p.m. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. Perhaps the personal freedoms Virgin (rightly) affords employees plays a role there. It was well organized, with separate boarding lanes already in place and plenty of seating for passengers. Seats in Premium are roomy: They're up to 21 inches wide (four inches wider than economy), have seven to eight inches of recline, and up to 38 inches of pitch. Accessibility | The sunrise provided a gorgeous backdrop to the sleek Airbus A350 aircraft with its signature curved wingtips, standing ready to take me home to London. Photo: Pranjal Pande | Simple Flying. Photo: Pranjal Pande | Simple Flying, Boarding the A350 is definitely an experience. [flight_stats ticket-class="econ" review-stat-section="Amenities and IFE" tpg-rating="12" tpg-rating-max="15" screen="13.3" movies="104" tv-shows="140" live-tv="No" tailcam="Yes" headphones="Yes" comp-alcohol="0" extra-pillows="0" turndown-service="0" /]. That meant I had no issues when the passenger in front of me reclined their seat. Your email address will not be published. Premium check in and fast track worth . Find the best seat wiht our Virgin Atlantic Airbus A350-1000 (351) seating chart. Please view our advertising policy page for more information. Unfortunately, no Priority Pass lounges were open prior to my 8:15 a.m. departure, either. Virgin Premium Economy - Airbus A350 DoorsToAuto 3.15K subscribers Description 17K views 5 months ago See the Virgin Premium Economy experience in this review of Virgin Atlantic. Virgin Atlantics Premium Economy offers a more a la carte service than economy, and that starts with pre-departure bubbles and drink service. I think everyone felt valued and welcomed. Things to know about Virgin Atlantic's brand-new Airbus A330neo - The Of course, in premium economy, you shouldn't expect Bose total noise-canceling headphones, but they could've done better than the economy offering. With new aircraft, several carriers are doing away with overhead air vents for passengers. My flight was on the emptier side, so most passengers who were seated in the middle section of four seats had empty seats between them. I am a vocal supporter of jetlag-free daytime flights from New York to London in any cabin, so I immediately focused on flight VS26.
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