Virgin Atlantic has reported a surge in bookings for flights to Israel, following the announcement that it was one of just twelve destinations on the UK Government’s ‘green list’. During the weekend after the announcement on Friday May 7, week on week bookings between London Heathrow and Tel Aviv were up by nearly 250%. From June, the airline will increase its services to daily, with double daily flights to commence from July.
Despite its current amber classification, Virgin Atlantic also reports that interest in the Caribbean remains “strong”, with Antigua and Barbados proving to be the two most popular destination for late 2021. Orlando remains the most visited destination page on Virgin Atlantic’s website, while summer bookings to the USA also “remain buoyant, with New York the most popular US destination on Virgin Atlantic’s network”.
The airline also reports that following a year of restrictions, there is a trend for many more travellers to “treat” themselves to cabin upgrades and additional leg room seats.
“We know there’s pent up demand to travel and our surge in bookings to Tel Aviv reflects this,” said Juha Jarvinen, Chief Commercial Officer at Virgin Atlantic. “We’ve seen a steady increase in interest throughout our network, particularly to Israel, as consumer confidence returns, allowing our customers to finally plan a much-needed sunny break or reconnect with family, friends and business colleagues.”
“Following a tough year, we understand holiday-makers are looking to spoil themselves with a premium on-board experience, which is highlighted by high bookings in our Upper Class and Premium cabins.”
The airline is also still pushing for the reopening of the transatlantic corridor, which continues to cause significant revenue loss for airlines and the economy.
“It’s now vital that the Government builds on the list of destinations on the green list, including the US,” said Jarvinen. “While transatlantic links are restricted £23 million in economic value is lost each day, which is why a transatlantic travel corridor is vital to deliver a much-needed boost to economic recovery. We urge the UK Government to expedite talks with the Biden administration to lead the way in opening the skies ahead of the G7 in June. Consumers and businesses need to book and travel with confidence and demand clearly demonstrates eagerness to travel safely. There is no reason to delay.”