Virgin Atlantic has set a new benchmark in transatlantic luxury with its redesigned Upper Class cabin aboard the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-1000, now a flagship on routes such as London Heathrow to New York JFK. This next-generation suite and social hub, The Loft, are now available for booking, reflecting the airline’s ongoing commitment to innovation and passenger comfort in 2025.

A pioneer in sky-high hospitality, Virgin Atlantic continues its legacy as the first carrier to introduce an inflight bar with an elevated concept: The Loft. This expansive lounge, the largest of its kind in Virgin’s fleet, invites Upper Class guests to mingle, sip signature cocktails, or enjoy gourmet bites in a refined, convivial setting.

Inspired by the award-winning Clubhouse lounges, The Loft brings curated social experiences to cruising altitude. Guests can indulge in bespoke mixology, share a table for a meal with travel companions, or delight in the renowned Mile High afternoon tea created by Eric Lanlard, alongside innovative dishes by celebrity chef Donal Skehan. Enhanced comfort features abound, including plush seating, Bluetooth audio, and seamless connectivity to a 32-inch HD display—perfect for streaming entertainment or viewing real-time footage from the tailcam.

 

Beyond The Loft, Virgin Atlantic’s Upper Class suite introduces a host of thoughtful enhancements, developed in collaboration with the airline’s most discerning frequent flyers.

Each suite is now angled toward the window for optimal privacy and views, with deployable privacy screens for a tailored sense of seclusion. Arranged in a 1-2-1 layout, every seat offers a generous 44-inch pitch and transforms into a fully flat bed stretching up to 82 inches. The suite features Virgin’s largest inflight entertainment system to date—a vibrant 18.5-inch touchscreen, easily controlled via the passenger’s own smart device. As always, direct aisle access is standard throughout the cabin, ensuring effortless movement and convenience.

“With the A350, we’re not just upgrading our fleet—we’re redefining the premium travel experience,” said Virgin Atlantic leadership. “Our aim is to make every journey exceptional, whether it’s your first time flying with us or your hundredth. The A350 is the cornerstone of our sustainability initiative, supporting our drive towards a younger, more environmentally responsible fleet and an enhanced customer journey.”

Since its debut, the A350-1000 has been a mainstay on the competitive London–New York corridor and now regularly services additional transatlantic routes. Virgin Atlantic’s order of 12 A350-1000 aircraft is now complete, with all units fully integrated into the fleet, representing the airline’s most modern and efficient long-haul offering as of 2025.