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Virgin Atlantic unveils New Airbus A330neo fleet with stunning new Upper Class Retreat Suites

Jim Moreton Jim Moreton Jul 14, 2022
Virgin Atlantic unveils New Airbus A330neo fleet with stunning new Upper Class Retreat Suites

Virgin Atlantic has set a new benchmark for premium air travel, unveiling its state-of-the-art A330-900neo fleet in London and introducing travelers to a reimagined Upper Class experience defined by elegance and innovation.

The airline's collection of 16 Airbus A330-900neo aircraft now soars with bespoke interiors, including 30 Vantage XL Upper Class suites and the exclusive ‘Retreat Suite’—heralded as the most expansive private suite Virgin Atlantic has ever offered.

Located at the front center of the Upper Class cabin, the two Retreat Suites can be reserved together to create a social enclave. Each suite transforms into a fully flat bed measuring 6 feet 7 inches (200 centimeters) and includes an ottoman that functions as an additional seat. The space comfortably accommodates up to four guests for private dining or conversation. Every suite is equipped with dual 27-inch (68 centimeters) high-definition touchscreens, Bluetooth audio, and wireless charging. The Retreat Suite upgrade, priced from £200 each way above standard Upper Class, has quickly become a favorite among discerning travelers.

Virgin Atlantic joins a growing roster of global carriers—such as JetBlue, China Eastern, and Air New Zealand—who have introduced enhanced "Business Plus" seats in the first row, providing extra space, privacy, and exclusivity for a premium surcharge.

All Upper Class suites are arranged in a 1-2-1 forward-facing layout, featuring sliding privacy doors, customizable mood lighting, a personal vanity mirror, wireless charging, a generous 17.3-inch (44 centimeters) touchscreen monitor, and abundant storage solutions for personal items.

Complementing the cabin, the A330-900neo showcases The Loft: a chic, lounge-inspired social hub near the second set of doors. This space welcomes up to eight travelers, offering plush seating for four, a self-serve refreshment station, and dual 27-inch touchscreens with Bluetooth connectivity and wireless charging. Guests can unwind, work, or socialize in this exclusive mid-flight retreat.

Premium Economy is thoughtfully appointed with 46 signature seats in a 2-3-2 configuration, each boasting a 38-inch (97 centimeters) pitch, calf rests, 13.3-inch (34 centimeters) touchscreens, Bluetooth audio, and wireless charging. Economy Class offers 184 seats in a 2-4-2 configuration with a 31-inch (78 centimeters) pitch, including 28 Economy Delight seats with a 34-inch (86 centimeters) pitch, 13.3-inch (34 centimeters) touchscreens, Bluetooth connectivity, and integrated AC and USB charging ports.

Since its debut, the A330-900neo has been deployed on the London Heathrow (LHR) to Boston (BOS) route, delivering a refined and contemporary inflight experience for both business and leisure travelers. 

For an in-depth look at Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class service, explore our comprehensive review.