Virgin Atlantic is set to expand its global network with the launch of new flights to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and the relaunch of its service to Accra, Ghana, in 2025. This strategic move is part of the airline’s broader effort to tap into growing markets and strengthen its position in international air travel.
Starting 30 March 2025, Virgin Atlantic will introduce a daily service to Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport from London Heathrow. This decision comes in response to the anticipated growth in air travel between the UK and Saudi Arabia, with projections indicating nearly a 25% increase by 2035. The new route is expected to cater primarily to the Saudi Arabian market, which has seen a significant rise in demand for travel to the UK.
“The market is expected to have a predominantly Saudi Arabian point of sale, which will see customers visiting the UK, as well as seamlessly connecting to 12 destinations throughout North America, on Virgin Atlantic and Delta networks, including Atlanta, New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Seattle, Boston, and Detroit,” the airline stated. This route is designed to serve both business travelers and the expanding ‘visiting friends and relatives’ (VFR) market, which has experienced a fivefold increase in the number of Saudis residing in the UK between 2000 and 2018.
Virgin Atlantic will operate the Riyadh route using its state-of-the-art Airbus A330neo aircraft, which promises enhanced fuel efficiency and passenger comfort. The airline will also offer onward connections from Riyadh to Islamabad, Lahore, and Karachi through its partnership with Saudia, further broadening its reach within the Middle East and South Asia.
In addition to its new Saudi route, Virgin Atlantic will relaunch its London Heathrow to Accra, Ghana service on 1 May 2025, a route it previously ceased in 2013. The daily flights to Kotoka International Airport will primarily target the VFR market, as well as travelers flying between Ghana and New York, with convenient connections available at Heathrow. This service will be operated by Virgin’s Boeing 787 Dreamliner, known for its long-haul capabilities and passenger-friendly design.
This expansion comes as Virgin Atlantic continues to adjust its network in response to global market dynamics. In June, the airline announced the re-launch of its flights to Canada, and more recently, it revealed plans to suspend its London to Shanghai service in October 2024. The suspension is attributed to increased flight times and operating costs resulting from the need to circumvent Russian airspace due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
With the addition of these new routes, Virgin Atlantic is positioning itself to capitalize on emerging travel trends and strengthen its presence in key international markets. The airline’s commitment to providing seamless connections and superior service remains central to its growth strategy as it navigates the complexities of the modern aviation landscape.
