Forty years ago, on 22nd June, 1984, Virgin Atlantic embarked on its maiden flight from London to New York, promising an exciting and unique travel experience.
Since then, the airline has continually revolutionised the industry and is set to unveil incredible initiatives for its customers this June. In celebration of its 40th anniversary, a special logo inspired by the bold stripe of its first aircraft, Maiden Voyager, will adorn new products, adding a splash of red to the grey skies of air travel.
The festivities begin at Virgin Atlantic’s flagship London Heathrow Clubhouse, which opened in 2006. Upper Class customers can relax with a special 40th birthday beer, a zesty pale ale brewed in Wimbledon, available exclusively at the Clubhouse.
Additionally, all Clubhouses will offer a new cocktail named Maiden Voyager, after the airline's first plane. This fruity drink is a modern twist on the classic 80s ‘Woo Woo’ cocktail, featuring vodka, peach puree, fresh lime, grenadine, egg white, and peach bitters. To further celebrate, a signature 40th - Ruby - birthday red velvet cake with whipped cream and berries will be served, accompanied by hit 80s tracks to set the party mood.
Virgin Atlantic will also honour its heritage with a display of cabin crew uniforms from the past four decades in the London Heathrow Clubhouse. This exhibit will feature designs by Arabella Pollen, Elizabeth and David Emanuel, John Rocha, and the current iconic uniform by Vivienne Westwood, introduced in 2014.
The celebration extends onboard with the introduction of the Virgin Redhead cocktail in all cabins. Previously a Clubhouse favourite, this drink, made with gin, mixed berries, lemon twist, and prosecco, will be complimentary in Upper Class and available for purchase in Premium.
The renowned Mile High Afternoon Tea will receive a ruby-themed makeover. On select flights, customers will enjoy a new 40th commemorative menu.
Upper Class passengers can indulge in a selection of savoury finger sandwiches, an elderflower & blueberry scone, a lemon and blackcurrant slice of birthday cake with a white chocolate disc and edible flowers, and a raspberry macaron with the 40th birthday logo. Premium and Economy passengers will also enjoy tailored treats, including English sparkling wine and themed cakes.
Lastly, Virgin Atlantic has partnered with Bottega to release limited-edition prosecco bottles with a special 40th birthday design. Available in 75cl and 20cl sizes, the larger bottles can be pre-ordered through Virgin Atlantic’s Retail Therapy, while the smaller ones will be available onboard in all cabins from late June.
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