Virgin Atlantic has revealed its first foray into South America with the launch of a new route from Heathrow to Sao Paulo in 2020.
The daily flight to Sao Paulo’s Guarulhos International airport will be operated by Virgin Atlantic’s B787 aircraft featuring Upper Class, Premium and all three Economy products – Delight, Classic and Light.
Virgin Atlantic says the new route was chosen to capitalise on Brazil’s fast-growing economy, with Sao Paulo being the “commercial capital” of the country. The city has proven popular for business travel, with multinational companies’ offices drawing corporates to Brazil.
Juha Jarvinen, executive vice president of commercial, commented: “2019 marks the start of a new phase of growth for Virgin Atlantic as we work to become the most-loved travel company. Sao Paulo represents an incredible opportunity for our business, and we’re very excited to be flying to a brand new continent for the first time.
“There are a significant number of corporate customers and multinational businesses located in this Powerhouse of South America who can now enjoy the Virgin Atlantic experience on this busy international route.”
The news comes as Virgin Atlantic embarks on an ambitious growth plan. In 2019, the airline will take delivery of the first four of its 12 new Airbus A350-1000 aircraft, which will feature its redesigned Upper Class.
Virgin Atlantic is also one of the founding members of a new US$13 billion transatlantic joint venture with Delta, Air France and KLM, which will offer more than 300 daily flights on 96 routes.
It is also a member of the Connect Airways consortium alongside Stobart Group and Cyrus Capital, which recently acquired regional carrier Flybe.
virginatlantic.com