09/10/2026
FRIDAY MEMBER SPOTLIGHT: Virgin Atlantic
The British Chamber of Business in Southern Africa is pleased to spotlight our member, Virgin Atlantic, as it celebrates 30 years of flying to Johannesburg, marking three decades of air connectivity between the United Kingdom and South Africa.
Since its inaugural flight to Johannesburg in October 1996, the airline has contributed to connecting people, businesses and destinations, supporting international travel, tourism and business links between the two markets.
To mark this milestone, Virgin Atlantic is introducing its Airbus A350-1000 on its daily London Heathrow to Johannesburg service from 25 October 2026, followed by three additional weekly flights from December. The expanded schedule will increase capacity to up to 10 weekly flights, offering travellers more flexibility and onward connections through London Heathrow to destinations across Europe, North America and the Caribbean.
The anniversary also highlights the longstanding relationships behind international air connectivity. Virgin Atlantic's Boeing 787, Lady Freedom, was named in honour of Nelson Mandela, reflecting the values of freedom and equality and the historical connection between the airline and South Africa.
The British Chamber congratulates Virgin Atlantic on reaching this significant milestone and recognises the continued role of aviation in facilitating trade, investment, tourism and business relationships between South Africa, the UK and the wider world.
We are pleased to share this milestone with our network as we continue to celebrate the achievements and contributions of our members across diverse sectors.
For more information about Virgin Atlantic's routes and flight schedules, visit: https://lnkd.in/duezH_QD
