Virgin Australia’s fleet renewal programme well underway

The arrival of Virgin Australia’s first fuel-efficient Boeing 737-8 aircraft marked an exciting new milestone in the transformation of Virgin Australia with its fleet renewal programme well underway as the airline continues to work towards its net-zero emissions target by 2050. The aircraft is one of 33 fuel-efficient Boeing 737-8 and 737-10 aircraft Virgin Australia has on order, with more fuel-efficient aircraft set to be delivered in the coming months.

With the arrival of the Boeing 737-8, Virgin Australia has also revealed its highly anticipated new Business Class and economy-cabin interior as well as confirming plans to refresh the interior cabins on the airline’s remaining Boeing fleet, as part of an investment of approximately AU$110 million (£57 million) to improve the flying experience for customers.

Highlight features of the new Boeing 737-8 cabin interior include:

In-seat power for all business-class, and economy-class seats.

Larger overhead lockers, with capacity to stow up to 50% more carry-on baggage (individual guest carry-on luggage limits will not increase).

Wider business-class seats which also feature leg rests with extendable footrests, storage compartments, tablet/device holders and water bottle holders.

A new economy-class-seat design, featuring a ribbed backing to elevate comfort and ergonomics.

A personal tablet/device holder for all economy-class seats, making it easy to view Virgin Australia in-flight entertainment, movies and TV shows.

The interior refresh and product upgrade across Virgin Australia’s remaining Boeing fleet will commence later this year, with the work set to be completed over the next two years, subject to operational requirements.

The upgrade includes:

Installation of in-seat power for all business class and economy class seats.

Installation of new Business Class seats, consistent with the new Boeing 737-8 aircraft.

Installation of new or refreshed Economy seats, with seat design to be consistent with the new Boeing 737-8 aircraft.

Introduction of in-flight Wi-Fi and complimentary in-flight entertainment (via a guest’s own personal device) to majority of remaining fleet.

An entirely new seat configuration will also be rolled out through the introduction of a new design cabin divider between business class and economy class. The new divider will allow for greater floor space in the economy cabin and the subsequent installation of between six and 12 additional economy-class seats. The refurbishment will also include the replacement of one Economy X row with economy-class seating on all Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Once the cabin refresh programme is complete, the unified in-flight offering will deliver more seats for travellers and a consistent guest experience across all flights operated by Virgin Australia Boeing 737 aircraft.