In an insightful conversation with Shivani Singh Deo, Country Manager, India, Virgin Atlantic, we delve into the airline’s bold expansion plans for 2025 and its deep insights into the Indian market. Virgin Atlantic is elevating the customer experience through cutting-edge fleet technology, personalized services, and a strong commitment to sustainable aviation, while further expanding its connectivity between India, the UK, and beyond.
The year 2024 was a dynamic year for the Indian aviation sector, marked by a robust increase in both domestic and international travel. This positive momentum underscores India’s resilience and potential as a key market for Virgin Atlantic.
The India Growth Plan
Virgin Atlantic has ambitious growth plans for 2025, with a million seats available on India routes. Shivani says, “This reflects our confidence in the long-term prospects of this market. Last year, the launch of our direct flights from London Heathrow to Bengaluru and increased capacity for Mumbai further strengthened our network to the UK and the US, offering greater choice and convenience for our customers. In March this year, we will further strengthen our network with the launch of a new direct route between Toronto and London.”
Shivani believes that 2025 will be a pivotal year for Indian aviation as it solidifies its position as a major global aviation hub, driven by increasing demand and infrastructure investments. She mentions, “We are committed to playing a leading role in shaping a more sustainable future for the industry, continuing to bridge cultures and economies between the UK and India and beyond to the US and Canada for years to come.”
Commitment to Innovation and Premium Experiences
Virgin Atlantic constantly leverages technological advancements and innovations to enhance services and be sustainably profitable. Over the last decade, they have invested billions of dollars in fleet transformation. The airline now operates one of the youngest, cleanest fleets in the sky, with an average aircraft age of just under seven years and 70 per cent of the aircraft being ‘next generation.’ “This will increase to 100 per cent by the beginning of 2027 as we continue to welcome new aircraft such as the A330neo to our fleet. Whenever customers choose Virgin Atlantic, they can be confident they will fly on the most modern aircraft technology available,” Shivani adds.
Virgin Atlantic prides itself on delivering a premium, personalised experience at every stage of the journey. This commitment lies at the heart of their vision to become the most loved travel company, a standard they have set and upheld since day one. This dedication has been recognised through numerous awards. “With 25 years of experience flying to India, we have developed a deep understanding of the market and our customers’ preferences. Our customers have always loved flying with us and frequently comment on the quality of service and warmth from our crew on the ground and in the air. They are always eager for more opportunities to travel with us. We are thrilled to have expanded our presence in India, offering five daily direct services to London Heathrow,” opines Shivani.
Exclusive In-Flight Comforts
Virgin Atlantic enhances the travel experience for passengers flying from India by ensuring the presence of Indian crew members who speak the local language, providing added comfort and familiarity. Additionally, their onboard menu celebrates India’s rich culinary heritage, offering a delightful fusion of Indian and British flavours at 35,000 feet. For customers’ convenience and entertainment, they offer onboard Wi-Fi, allowing them to stay connected throughout the flight. Plus, their loyalty programme, Flying Club, aims to build deeper, long-lasting relationships with customers by offering greater choice and flexibility, making it easier and more rewarding to fly with points, along with a range of other benefits. Their renowned Clubhouse provides an exclusive experience to all Upper Class and Gold Card members.
Future-Forward Sustainable Approach
Virgin Atlantic uses technology and innovation to enhance the travel experience for its customers and ensure sustainable profitability. Shivani adds, “Over the past decade, we have invested billions in modernising our fleet with Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s, and A330neos. We are investing heavily in more fuel-efficient aircraft, exploring sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs), and partnering with organisations to offset our carbon emissions. We also utilise advanced flight management technology, including Noise Abatement Departure Procedures and Continuous Descent Approach, to optimise flight paths and minimise noise pollution over sensitive areas. We believe that flying can be both enjoyable and responsible.”
