Virgin Atlantic, the British premier carrier, has said earlier this month that it will set up a base in Edinburgh later this year, offering direct flights to Barbados and Orlando.
It’s the first time that Virgin Atlantic will operate international flights from the Scottish capital in its 37-year history. The flight to Barbados will be Scotland’s only direct service to the Caribbean and will launch on December 5, 2021. Flights to Orlando, the theme park capital of the world, will launch on March 30, 2022.
The new Caribbean flights will operate twice weekly on an Airbus A330, while the new Orlando flights will also be twice weekly, operating on an Airbus A330-200. The fares start from £419 and customers on the Barbados route will be able to choose to fly in one of three cabins on the A330.
Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: ‘A premier city like Edinburgh deserves premier airlines and we are extremely excited to welcome our newest partner Virgin Atlantic to Scotland’s capital city.
‘To be able to deliver flights to Barbados, Scotland’s only direct route to the Caribbean, and Orlando is a fantastic boost to us as we prepare for the post-Covid recovery, and it is a huge show of confidence in Edinburgh Airport’s ability to deliver for passengers across the country.
‘We look forward to the new routes launching and watching passengers head off on the holiday of a lifetime from Edinburgh Airport with Virgin Atlantic.’
Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic, commented: ‘Commencing international flights from Edinburgh marks an exciting new chapter for Virgin Atlantic and we couldn’t be happier to be flying from a new home in Scotland. I know our teams are itching to show Edinburgh the Virgin Atlantic spirit and flair we’re famous for.
‘Our two new routes provide an array of holiday options to suit everyone. From family fun and the thrills of Orlando’s theme parks to the stunning beaches and chilled out vibes in Barbados, we’re confident there’s something to love for all of our Scottish customers.’
Virgin Atlantic will be joining its joint venture partner, Delta Air Lines, at its new home in Scotland. Delta currently flies to both New York and Boston from the Scottish capital, with additional partners Air France KLM operating services to both Paris and Amsterdam.
