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Airlines
Virgin Atlantic Airways - airline information
General information
Virgin Atlantic is a very important transatlantic air carrier based in Crawley, England and is part of Sir Richard Branson's business empire. The airline operates primarily long haul flights, serving destinations in the Caribbean, North America, Africa, Asia, Australia and, of course Europe. The airline started operations in 1982 with a single Boeing 747, linking London and New York. The idea was so profitable that the airline doubled its single aircraft fleet, buying another Jumbo Jet in 1986. More major destinations were added to the list in the next 6 years: Tokyo, Boston, Los Angeles, Orlando. Today, Virgin Atlantic serves 30 destinations, taking advantage of the intense flux of UK resident businessmen and families towards vacation destinations in the Caribbean, as well as to major cities of the World.
Fact sheet
Destinations
The main hub is at London, while a secondary one, smaller one is at Manchester. London and Manchester are connected (directly and indirectly) to major destinations of British travelers and also primary business tourism sources, such as: Hong Kong, Sydney, New York, Los Angeles, etc.
Fleet
Currently only the long haul flight-destined Airbus A340 and Boeing 747 aircraft are in service. Airbus A380 double-decker long range airplanes will be introduced. 6 were ordered and deliveries are starting with 2009 (the initial date set was in 2006, but due to Airbus' organization, financial and technical problems, it had to be delayed). There are options for further 6 aircraft. Boeing 787s are expected to enter service 2011. The initial (firm) order is of 15. But, the number could rise with 28 others, taking account of the further options and purchase rights.
Activity & market position
51 % of the company's shares are owned by the Virgin Group, 49 % by Singapore Airlines. The company is only 7th in the UK in terms of passenger numbers, but 2nd in terms of passenger-kilometers flown. The airline flies to faraway destinations, but carries relatively few people. Due to its good organization and cost-effective operations, Virgin Atlantic is a profitable company that survived the 911 phenomenon better than most other airlines. The main rival of the company is British Airways, but the competition is rather on the long haul flight segment.
Last modified/updated: October 25, 2007
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