Virgin Australia unveils new business class

THE airline launched its fancy new international business class cabin today, but it was a surprise for economy passengers that had everyone talking.

Virgin’s new business class section. Picture: Virgin Australia

VIRGIN Australia has launched its new international business class cabin today, along with a surprise for economy passengers.

The first of the airline’s refitted Boeing 777-300ER planes to feature the new cabin, called ‘The Business’, has already taken to the skies and is now flying across the Pacific.

The new section includes 37 suites that convert into the length of a square bed (80 inches), in a 1-2-1 configuration. The airline says the “reverse herringbone” design of the cabin will maximise privacy.

It boasts that passengers will be in for a comfier ride, with: “customised triple-layer seat cushion supported by a hammock sub-frame and a turndown service with memory foam mattress toppers and high-grade cotton pillows and doonas”.

It will also feature the largest in-flight entertainment screen on flights between Australia and North America, at 18 inches, along with Luke Mangan-designed menus.

The airline claims the new seats, along with a new business class bar and lounge, and refreshed premium cabin, will “transform” the customer experience.

The new seats. Picture: Virgin Australia

It claims to maximise privacy. Picture: Virgin Australia

Virgin Australia Group CEO John Borghetti said: “With competition increasing from Australia to North America and the Middle East, we believe this will be the best Business Class on the Pacific, with the product also being introduced to Abu Dhabi later this year.

“We have seen customer satisfaction scores increasing to all-time highs after introducing ‘The Business’ domestically on transcontinental routes so we are confident that, with our new Boeing 777 Business Class cabin and refreshed Premium cabin, Virgin Australia will be the number one choice for premium travellers.”

We all scream ... for large screens. Picture: Virgin Australia

Yep, it’s pretty cool. Picture: Virgin Australia

ECONOMY SPACE +

The airline also launched a new “economy space +” option between Australia, the US and the Middle East today.

Costing $135-$165, the new option is available from tomorrow when selecting your seat.

It’s located in the first five rows and the exit rows of the 777-300ER fleet, and offers extra legroom, a dedicated premium check-in counter, pre-boarding, preferred overhead locker and a guaranteed first meal of choice. There are also dedicated crew members and a noise-cancelling headset.

Virgin Australia Chief Customer Officer, Mark Hassell said of the new product: “We believe Economy Space + will be very popular with a range of travellers.

“Economy Space + enables you to speed through the airport and enjoy service from dedicated crew members throughout the flight, providing great value for guests travelling to Los Angeles and Abu Dhabi.”