Virgin Atlantic has launched a second daily direct flight between London Heathrow and Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA), doubling its capacity on this highly sought-after route. This new addition, introduced on October 27, 2024, marks Virgin Atlantic’s fifth daily flight to India, complementing existing services to Delhi and Bengaluru.
As the airline anticipates operating close to 1 million seats in India in 2025, India has become Virgin Atlantic’s fastest-growing market outside the United States. The decision underscores Virgin Atlantic’s dedication to India as an integral part of its global strategy, meeting demand from both business and leisure travellers.
The second daily service will be operated by Virgin Atlantic’s Airbus A350-1000, offering a luxurious experience with three cabin classes: Upper Class, Premium, and Economy. The Upper Class cabin features fully flat beds, private suites, and the airline’s largest in-flight entertainment screens (18.5 inches). Premium passengers enjoy custom leather seats with additional storage and extra reclining, while Economy travellers benefit from comfortable seatback screens and USB ports.
Air India has also been making strides in upgrading its fleet. The airline’s narrowbody fleet is undergoing significant refurbishments, with new aircraft deliveries and retrofitting of legacy planes. The first retrofitted A320neo, expected by mid-2025, will feature a modern cabin design with luxurious seating arrangements: 8 Business Class seats, 24 Premium Economy seats, and 132 Economy seats.
Apart from enhancing passenger comfort, the A350-1000 supports India’s dynamic trade market by facilitating the seamless transport of goods between the UK and India, benefiting sectors such as fashion, pharmaceuticals, and technology.Shivani Singh Deo, Country Manager for Virgin Atlantic in India, remarked on the airline’s expansion: “India represents a tremendous opportunity with its vibrant and fast-growing economy. Our second daily flight to Mumbai not only meets increased demand for premium travel but also reflects our commitment to India as we approach our 25th anniversary here. We are dedicated to offering an exceptional experience, supported by our young fleet and signature service.”
A spokesperson from CSMIA added, “We are delighted to welcome Virgin Atlantic’s second daily service on the London–Mumbai route. This expansion meets the growing demand for seamless travel between these iconic cities and reinforces CSMIA’s reputation as a premier global aviation hub, delivering world-class service and strengthening global ties.”
