Virgin Atlantic has taken delivery of its first Airbus A330neo aircraft leased from Air Lease Corporation. The A330neo will play a key role in the company’s fleet transformation and also marks the 50th Airbus aircraft for the UK-based airline.
Virgin Atlantic will become the first operator of the type in the UK and has ordered 13 A330neo aircraft (six on lease from ALC) with an intention to expand the fleet to 16 eventually.
The A330neo, powered by Rolls-Royce Trent 7000 engines, brings double-digit lower operating costs per seat and has 25 per cent less fuel burn and carbon emissions compared to previous generation competitor aircraft.
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It affords Virgin Atlantic A330-A350 fleet commonality for its pilots and a seamless passenger experience, as Virgin Atlantic already operates nine A350-1000 aircraft.
The A330neo features the Airspace cabin offering more personal space, larger overhead bins, a new lighting system and the ability to offer the latest in-flight entertainment systems and full connectivity.
The aircraft is configured to accommodate 262 passengers in three classes including 32 upper-class seats featuring privacy doors and two of the carrier’s new Retreat Suites.
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