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Virgin Expands With Boeing's Dreamliner

25th April 2007 Virgin Atlantic has announced the largest order yet by a European airline for Boeing's new 787 Dreamliner.

The 787-9 Dreamliner has the biggest windows in the air, giving all passengers clear views of the horizon; an even better cabin environment, including higher ceilings and larger luggage bins; and greater long-range capability (up to 8,500 nautical miles) enabling trips from London to Perth or Hawaii, for example, without stopping en route. A more direct route uses less fuel, with fewer take-offs and landings reducing aircraft noise as well as freeing-up airport slots with fewer connecting passengers.

Sir Richard Branson, Chairman of Virgin Atlantic, commented:

"Virgin Atlantic is totally focused on delivering a cleaner airline in the air and on the ground, and our order today will significantly cut carbon emissions per 787 Dreamliner flight. With this dynamic new plane, our customers will get the world’s best customer service onboard combined with world-class engineering throughout. The 787 Dreamliner symbolizes the environmentally-kinder aircraft of the future - cleaner, quieter, lighter and truly the best experience in the air."

The new Virgin Atlantic 787 Dreamliners will enable the airline to continue its global expansion, possibly flying to cities including Rio de Janeiro, Seattle, Vancouver, Bangkok and Melbourne.

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