Constant rain boosts Virgin Atlantic passenger numbers

Virgin Atlantic, one of the world's leading long-haul carriers, will carry 25% more passengers over the August Bank Holiday period, compared with the same time last year, partly because of the recent atrocious British weather.

Almost 90,000 passengers will travel on Virgin Atlantic this weekend with US cities like LA, New York and San Francisco proving the most popular along with African destinations including Nairobi and Johannesburg. Not surprisingly Dubai, with its guaranteed sunshine also features very highly in this summer’s most wanted hotspots.

There has been a surge in bookings during August, prompted by the lack of sunny weather in the UK and by competitive prices, especially in premium cabins Upper Class and Premium Economy.

Steve Ridgway, Chief Executive of Virgin Atlantic, commented:

“August Bank Holiday is traditionally a time when many opt for a holiday but this year’s disappointing weather has meant that more Britons than ever are flocking to far-flung destinations worldwide in search of summer sun.

“The 25% increase in passenger numbers is also, in part, due to Virgin
Atlantic’s continued expansion to popular destinations worldwide like Nairobi and Chicago and extremely good deals on many routes.”

5.1m passengers travelled with Virgin Atlantic last year to its 28 destinations worldwide. This year Virgin Atlantic has launched flights to Chicago and Nairobi and will be launching flights to Kingston and Mauritius in October.

To book a last minute deal visit Virginatlantic.com.