Virgin Atlantic to Launch Free Starlink Wi-Fi and Cabin Upgrades Across Fleet by 2027

Virgin Atlantic has announced plans to equip its fleet with SpaceX’s Starlink, providing passengers with free, high-speed inflight Wi-Fi beginning in 2026. The move will see the airline roll out the satellite-based connectivity across its Boeing 787s, Airbus A350s, and A330neo aircraft, marking a major step forward in passenger experience.

Virgin Atlantic is setting a new standard for in-flight experience, becoming the first UK airline to announce the rollout of Starlink, the world’s fastest satellite internet service, across its fleet.

But this isn't the only new and exciting change coming from the bosses at Virgin Atlantic. Tuesday 8th July saw them announce a plethora of changes coming to the company which will only improve their customer service and journey. From plush new seats across all cabins, to upgraded lounges, Virgin Atlantic are on a mission.

Virgin Atlantic to Launch Free Starlink Wi-Fi: Game On at 30,000 Feet

Starting in 2026, Virgin Atlantic will begin installing Starlink hardware across its fleet, aiming to complete the rollout by the end of 2027. The service will be offered free of charge to all passengers with the only requirement being the need to have a Flying Club account login, after which travellers can stream, scroll, and stay connected throughout their journey. One of Starlink's policies is that all cabin classes get access to the full product free of charge, and personally I think this is a great move by them. Free Wi-Fi shouldn't just be for those in the pointy end of the plane!

Unlike many traditional inflight Wi-Fi systems, which often charge high fees for limited and inconsistent service, Starlink promises low-latency, high-bandwidth connectivity suitable for video calls, streaming, and even gaming, making it a significant upgrade to the inflight experience.

This is a major win for travellers. Sam got to experience the delights of Starlink on his recent Qatar Airways flight, you can read all about it when that review comes out soon. The fact that the speed of the internet was better than the Wi-Fi we have in our house speaks volumes on this incredible technology.

Sam did a speed test when on his Qatar flight where he got to experience Starlink for the first time

This is especially impressive for Virgin Atlantic as British Airways are still yet to finalise a similar deal despite having been in the works for the a while now. It speaks volumes to Virgin Atlantic's commitment to bettering and improving not only their fleet but their customer experience.

A Premium Overhaul: More Fancy Seats, Fewer Cramped Ones

Virgin is leaning hard into the “premiumisation” trend, driven by leisure travellers looking to have a better experience on their holidays, especially true on popular transatlantic routes. Expect more Upper Class and Premium seats, and fewer economy ones, across both new and existing aircraft.

The installation will cover Virgin Atlantic’s modern long-haul aircraft, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, Airbus A350, and A330neo. However, the airline’s older A330 aircraft will not be upgraded, as these jets are set to be retired from service.

All cabins are getting an overhaul which is fantastic news

This strategic focus on the next-generation fleet reflects Virgin Atlantic’s broader commitment to investing in more efficient aircraft and modernising its onboard offering.

For the brand-new A330-900neos, the updated cabin layout will include:

• 6 ultra-lux Retreat Suites

• 42 Upper Class pods

• 56 Premium seats

• 128 Economy seats

Virgin’s Boeing 787 Dreamliners, previously criticised for their dated “coffin-style” Upper Class seats (or as we like to call it "The Toastrack"), will also receive a full interior refresh beginning in 2028, aligning their layout with the sleeker A330neo design.

The new layout includes:

• 8 Retreat Suites (making their 787 debut)

• 36 Upper Class pods with sliding doors

• 56 Premium seats

• 127 Economy seats

However, these enhancements come with a trade-off: the airline will be retiring its signature onboard bar to make room for additional premium seating. While a loss for nostalgic travellers, Virgin believes the added comfort across more seats will serve more passengers better.

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Lounges Get a Luxe Makeover

Virgin Atlantic’s renowned Clubhouses at London Heathrow and New York JFK will undergo a significant refresh. Inspired by the carrier’s newest Los Angeles Clubhouse, the redesign will feature richer textures, mood lighting, and a sunset-inspired palette of purples, golds, and oranges.

The Clubhouse in LAX will be the inspiration for the updated look at Heathrow

These updates aim to modernise the Clubhouse experience without losing the brand’s signature flair. Helena really enjoyed the Heathrow Clubhouse, head on over to see her thoughts.

Even More on the Way: Amenities and App Enhancements

Virgin’s transformation doesn’t stop with planes and lounges. The airline has also announced several additional upgrades:

• New amenity kits will feature skincare from Votary, replacing REN products as the brand ceases operations. Expect premium balms, face mists, and creams.

• A new mobile app is set to launch later this year, offering a more personalised Flying Club experience and streamlined user interface.

There will also be a slight revamped in the works to the current loyalty recognition programme which will be aimed at acknowledging long-time Virgin loyalists who may not travel frequently enough to reach elite tiers. Details are still under wraps for this but I particularly like this as an idea, there are many types of people who fly and are long term customers, who may not have the ability or the finances to get to Silver or Gold, but who are "brand-loyal" and that deserves to be recognised. This seems to be a strategy to gain travellers who felt disenfranchised from BA's recent reorganisation of their Club loyalty scheme, making it harder for the casual traveller from gaining status.

A Clear Statement of Intent

After navigating the challenges of the pandemic, Virgin Atlantic is reasserting itself as a forward-thinking carrier. With these investments, the airline is looking to distinguish itself through digital innovation, premium comfort, and consistent service quality, not only for Upper Class travellers, but for passengers in every cabin.

Virgin’s proactive rollout of Starlink, especially ahead of UK competitors, reinforces its commitment to improving the onboard experience across the board.

The Bottom Line

Virgin Atlantic is betting big on the future of travel, where Wi-Fi is fast and free, seats are more spacious, and lounges feel like boutique hotels.

Whether you’re a frequent flyer or an occasional adventurer, it’s safe to say that flying Virgin is about to feel a whole lot more… well, Virgin.

Helena

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