Virgin Atlantic Airline Guide

Virgin Atlantic is part of the massive Virgin group owned by Richard Branson. You can fly in comfort from the UK to destinations across the world and they are particularly useful for flights to the US. Virgin Atlantic is based at London Heathrow and Gatwick.

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Check-in

Virgin Atlantic check-in procedures vary between airports. At Heathrow check-in desks close 60 minutes before departure, but you can avoid the queues by checking in online 24-hours before your flight - this closes two hours before departure.

Luggage restrictions and security

Hand luggage: Economy and Premium Economy passengers can take one piece of hand luggage on board. It can't measure more than 23cm x 36cm x 56cm, (9" x 14" x 22") and weigh more than 6kg (13lb). Another small item such as a handbag or coat is also allowed.

Checked: the Economy Class allowance is two pieces of luggage each weighing up to 23kg (50lb). When added together the three dimensions of any piece of luggage must not exceed 158cm (62"). Allowances are higher for other classes. Infants without their own seat are allowed one piece of luggage weighing up to 10kg with dimensions of 23cm x 36cm x 56cm (9" x 14" x 22").

Families, elderly and disabled

Virgin Atlantic discounts fares for children aged two to 12. Infants under two can travel on an adult's lap for a reduced fare. Strollers are carried for free. Children aged five to 15 can travel alone, but you must request it when you book which cannot be done online. If you require extra assistance let Virgin Atlantic know well in advance and they will find someone to assist you from the airport to the plane. They can also assist you when you're transferring flights.

Selecting a seat

You can travel in Economy, Premium Economy or Upper Class and seat upgrades can be arranged after you've booked by contacting your travel agent or Virgin Atlantic. The Economy seat pitch is 30" - 31".

In-flight food and entertainment

Virgin Atlantic offers you good quality meals and drinks. Each seat has its own screen, in fact Virgin Airlines were the first to offer seatback TVs. The in-flight magazine, Seatback, is published four times a month. There is also a monthly magazine on flights to Dubai. You'll get an amenity kit including lip balm and socks and kids get a goodie bag.

Pets, sports gear and musical instruments

Pets can travel on some routes, but must be booked in advance. Standard baggage allowances apply for musical instruments and you can purchase seats for large or fragile items. Golfers can check in one golf bag including clubs, balls and shoes as a single item and other sports items are checked in as one piece of luggage.

Alliances and air miles

Virgin Atlantic has partnerships with Singapore Airlines, Continental Airlines, bmi, America West Airlines, Virgin Nigeria and Malaysia Airlines. You can collect frequent flyer points through Flying Club.

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Contact

Call 0871 984 0840 (from the UK) or visit www.virginatlantic.com.