Virgin Atlantic has unveiled plans to become the first UK airline to offer free, streaming-quality Wi-Fi across its entire fleet through a partnership with Starlink technology. The announcement will mean a significant upgrade for holidaymakers who will enjoy unlimited internet access at 38,000 feet.
The airline promises a "home away from home" connectivity experience, allowing passengers to stream content, browse and stay connected throughout their journey.
The service will be available to all Flying Club members at no additional cost. Installation of the Starlink technology will begin in the third quarter of 2026 across Virgin Atlantic's fleet of Airbus A330neos, A350s and Boeing 787s. The rollout is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.
The new Wi-Fi service builds on Virgin Atlantic's position as the first airline to introduce fleet-wide connectivity across the Atlantic in 2017.
The Wi-Fi service will be available to all Flying Club members at no additional cost
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Passengers will be able to connect seamlessly from the moment they board, with the airline emphasising that the quality will match ground-based internet speeds.
Flying Club membership, which is free to join, will be required to access the complimentary service. The airline is also enhancing its loyalty programme with new features recognising multi-year loyalty for customers who may not travel frequently enough to achieve tier status progression.
CEO of Virgin Atlantic, Shai Weiss, said: "We exist to make our customers smile, it's that simple - obsessing over finding new ways to delight our guests."
Virgin Atlantic is launching a new mobile app in December 2025 that will serve as a personal travel companion, integrating both flight and holiday bookings into one platform. The app will be designed primarily for Flying Club members but will be accessible to all passengers.
In partnership with OpenAI and Tomoro.ai, Virgin Atlantic will become the first European airline to integrate advanced voice mode technology. The AI-powered concierge service will provide personalised, hands-free assistance in any language, helping travellers with everything from travel ideas to airport navigation.
CXO of Virgin Atlantic, Siobhan Fitzpatrick, said: "Our announcements today provide a snapshot into the future of how we care, serve, and delight every single one of our guests."
The concierge will be accessible through the Virgin Atlantic app, offering support whether passengers prefer to tap, scan or speak. Virgin Atlantic is expanding premium cabin capacity across its fleet to meet growing demand.
The airline's Boeing 787-9 aircraft will undergo complete cabin refurbishment from 2028, increasing Upper Class seats from 31 to 44 and Premium seats from 35 to 56.
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The redesigned cabins will feature eight Retreat Suites per aircraft
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The redesigned cabins will feature eight Retreat Suites per aircraft, Virgin Atlantic's most spacious offering with a 6ft 7" fully flat bed and 27" touchscreen.
A total of 10 new A330neo aircraft joining from Q3 2026 will feature 48 Upper Class seats and six Retreat Suites.
Following the successful Los Angeles Clubhouse opening in March, Virgin Atlantic is investing millions in refurbishing its London Heathrow and New York JFK lounges. New luxury amenities include a partnership with Votary skin care, with products appearing in Upper Class amenity kits from early next year.
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