Virgin Atlantic describes themselves as a "bright red, fun, friendly, fabulous choice that made travel attainable for everyone." Indeed, the London-based airline took the market by storm when they launched in the mid-80s, offering a first class product at business class prices, and challenging the existing norms set by flag carrier British Airways.

With the introduction of "Upper Class," Virgin was one of the pioneers of the "business class plus" model that many airlines are shifting to today. You didn't just get a lie flat seat - you also got a private chauffeur to the airport, a private security channel, an over-the-top airport lounge with a barber shop and spa, and also an ONBOARD lounge to socialize and mingle with other passengers. And for a while during the late 2000s, Virgin probably had one of the most complete business class products in the entire world.

But fast forward to post-COVID, and Upper Class has evolved a bit. Even though Virgin introduced a brand new seat & cabin on its new A350s and A330neos, it has stripped some of the other Upper Class perks such as the private limo. The spa and salon in the Clubhouse Lounge are no longer. And the private security channel was closed when I traveled.

What's it like to travel in Virgin's most premium cabin in 2024? Come along with me and let's figure it out on this 7 hour flight from London Heathrow to New York JFK!!

Flight Details:
Airline / Flight No: Virgin Atlantic (VS) 153
Aircraft Type: Airbus A350-1000 (G-VPOP)
From: London, England (LHR)
To: New York, New York (JFK)
Departure Time: 13 March 2024 2:05pm GMT
Arrival Time: 13 March 2024 6:25pm ET

TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Intro
02:21 Arrival and Check-in at London Heathrow Terminal 3
04:43 Post-Security and Virgin's Clubhouse Lounge
10:24 Arrival at Gate and Boarding the A350
12:30 Pushback, Taxi and Takeoff
14:32 Wifi and First Inflight Meal Service
17:53 Lavatory and Cabin Tour - Economy & Premium Class
21:12 Second Meal Service and the "Loft"
21:52 Approach and Landing into JFK
23:27 Final Thoughts (including Ticket Cost)

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