Virgin Atlantic will introduce the Airbus A350-1000 on its daily Johannesburg-London route from 25 October, before adding three weekly Boeing 787-9 services in December, increasing capacity and travel options between South Africa and the UK.
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The schedule changes coincide with the airline’s 30th anniversary of flying to South Africa and are intended to provide more flexibility for passengers travelling between Johannesburg and London, as well as those connecting through London Heathrow to destinations in North America, the Caribbean and Europe.
The upgraded daily service will operate as follows:
• VS449: London Heathrow to Johannesburg, daily, operated by the A350-1000.
• VS450: Johannesburg to London Heathrow, daily, operated by the A350-1000.
From December, Virgin Atlantic will add three weekly services using Boeing 787-9 aircraft.
• VS461: London Heathrow to Johannesburg, from 13 December, operating Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.
• VS462: Johannesburg to London Heathrow, from 14 December, operating Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.
Three decades on the route
The expanded schedule marks 30 years of Virgin Atlantic serving Johannesburg, connecting South Africa with the UK and destinations beyond.
Marc Harding, country manager South Africa at Virgin Atlantic, said: “When I reflect on the last 30 years, I don't think first about aircraft, schedules or destinations. I think about the people who believed in our brand, the teams who made every journey possible, and the partners who have stood alongside us every step of the way.
"Together we've built something truly special, and I believe the next 30 years hold even greater opportunities for Virgin Atlantic, for South Africa, and for the connections that bring us together.”
The Johannesburg-London route connects South African travellers with the UK and Virgin Atlantic’s wider network through London Heathrow.
Virgin Atlantic is a member of SkyTeam, which provides reciprocal frequent flyer benefits and connectivity across the alliance. The airline also has partnerships with other carriers that offer additional onward travel options.
Aircraft and passenger services
The A350-1000 will bring Virgin Atlantic’s latest-generation aircraft to the daily Johannesburg service. The airline offers Upper Class, Premium and Economy cabins.
Eligible customers departing Johannesburg can also use the airline’s Johannesburg Clubhouse, which offers locally inspired dining, regional wines and spirits, showers, luggage storage and pre-departure facilities.
The airline said the additional flights would provide more options during the busy summer and festive travel period.
