Virgin Atlantic have today announced its plans to ensure the airline is best suited to the new demand for air travel. Under the plans, the airline is 'optimising the network and simplifying their fleet.' Currently there are seven Boeing 747-400 aircraft in their fleet, all are to be withdrawn effective immediately, and will not return to passenger service. The four Airbus A330-200s will leave the fleet in early 2022. The fleet will consist of 36 aircraft in 2022. For the route network, all operations are to be moved to London Heathrow, and the Gatwick hub will be temporarily closed. The airline will retain their slots at Gatwick if possible ready for use when the demand reaches a level where this hub can be reopened. Virgin Holidays is to have a subtle name change to Virgin Atlantic Holidays. For the employees, Virgin Atlantic are starting a 45 day consultation with BALPA and Unite unions, after announcing a planned reduction of 3,150 jobs. In a statement, Shai Weiss, CEO mentioned “I wish it was not the case, but we will have to reduce the number of people we employ. The commitment of our people throughout this crisis has been nothing but amazing, and the embodiment of true Virgin spirit. As we have navigated the Covid-19 crisis, I have been humbled at every step by their solidarity. In times of adversity we must support each other so that ultimately, we can emerge a stronger and better Virgin Atlantic." To read the full press release from Virgin Atlantic, please click here. Comments are closed.
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