Virgin Atlantic set to phase out remainder of A340s by end of 2019

Virgin Atlantic is set to phase out the remainder of its A340-600 fleet as it ushers in 14 new A330-900neos, with an additional six as options.

The order, valued at $4.1billion, is a crucial step in Virgin Atlantic’s fleet transformation programme which will see 100% of the airline’s planes replaced over a 10 year period.

"Timelines are subject to change, but the plan is to retire our A340-600 fleet by the end of the year," Virgin Atlantic said in a statement.

The airline currently operates 14 A330s: ten A330-300s and four A330-200s.

When the initial order for the 14 A330-900s was placed, Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic, commented: "The acquisition of 14 A330neos will play a pivotal role in our fleet transformation and it is testament to our sustainability commitment; by 2024, we will have improved the fuel efficiency of our aircraft by 32%.” 

The new planes are designed to be 13% more fuel and carbon-efficient than the A330-300 they replace and will deliver a 50% reduction in airport noise contour, the company said.

Airbus stopped the production of the four-engined A340 in November 2011.