[TRAVEL]: 5 Reasons To Fly With Virgin Atlantic

I’ve been looking forward to writing this post, as I was so happy I decided to fly with Virgin Atlantic to London at the end of May. I’ll have my post on the time I spent in London up soon but for now, I want to let you know why I’m such a fan of this airline.

1. Their staff is amazing on and off the plane

From the moment I stepped up to the counter to check-in, to the process of getting on my flight, all of the staff were so friendly and helpful. Many of you saw the message I shared on my Twitter profile about the horrific incident that happened when I landed back in Johannesburg. Honestly, the way the Virgin Atlantic staff immediately stepped in and did their best to help was incredible. So high five to the awesome ground staff and air crew!

2. They Strive To Be As Sustainable As Possible

“Change Is In The Air” – the name of the Virgin Atlantic sustainability program. You all know how much I love traveling, and this includes a love of flying. In the back of my mind though, the effect on the environment that flying causes always concerns me. So when an airline comes along that wants to do everything they can to offset their carbon footprint, I’m listening! Their top environmental priority is around aircraft fuel and carbon reductions, but also includes aircraft waste and noise, their combined ground operations (for the airline and holiday company) and their supply chain work.

They recently announced that they’ve ordered 14 Airbus A330neos which will be part of their youngest and cleanest fleet. This will lead to improving the fuel efficiency of their aircraft by 32% by the year 2024. You can read more about their efforts to be more sustainable over here.

3. Virgin Atlantic’s Social Media Game Is On Point

No, seriously. I love following them on Instagram. They are so on-trend; and are constantly interacting and engaging with their followers. They have this insane way of making one just want to hop on a plane and fly off to an exciting destination. Even their air safety video at the beginning of each flight is entertaining. It’s 2019, and from a brand’s perspective they have hit the nail on the head in terms of being modern and relatable. So props to their social media teams!

4. There Is A Seat For Every Budget

From three options for economy class to Premium Class and then the fabulous Upper Class, there is a choice for everyone. There is Economy light will always offer the lowest fares so price-conscious passengers can travel with hand baggage only. Then the usual Economy classic which now includes seat allocation which is great for families and couples and then there is Economy Delight which offers 34-inch legroom, priority check-in and boarding, seat allocation and maximum Flying Club points. To upgrade you can pay, use your Miles or bid for an upgrade.

5. Lounges That Make You Want To Check In Earlier

So I thought the Virgin Atlantic Lounge in OR Tambo International Airport was fabulous. That was until I stepped into their Lounge in Heathrow Airport. It’s absolutely huge and so luxurious. I had delicious meals; sipped on some drinks and even had a shower in their spacious bathroom before flying back to South Africa. I was so relaxed before my flights thanks to their lounges and I recommend checking in a bit earlier and just enjoying your time in their comfortable chairs before you fly.

In case you missed Part 1 of my trip to England, you can read about my 1 night in Bury and 1 night in Manchester here. And my London post here!

A huge thank you to Virgin Atlantic for the best flights and to the team in South Africa for making sure I had the best trip. I honestly can’t wait to fly with you guys again!