Virgin Atlantic is to launch direct flights from Heathrow to Austin from May 25.
The service to the capital city of Texas is the airline’s first new route to the US since 2015 and will be in direct competition with British Airways flights. The announcement comes a month after the airline told Travel Weekly of its plans to develop its US offering.
Flights will operate four times a week on Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with 31 Upper Class, 35 Premium and 192 Economy Delight, Classic and Light seats.
Onward services from Virgin’s joint venture partner Delta Air Lines will offer connections to 10 US cities, including Seattle and Los Angeles on the west coast.
Juha Jarvinen, chief commercial officer, said: “We are incredibly excited to launch this new service to Austin, Texas. With an impressive food, arts and music scene, we know it’s a destination our customers will love to explore.
“The US has been our heartland for more than 37 years since our first flight to New York City in 1984. Since US borders opened to UK travellers on November 8, it feels extra special to be launching new flying, especially to the fantastic city of Austin.”
Jarvinen added: “There are so many synergies between Virgin Atlantic and the city of Austin. We love their philosophy and desire to celebrate local brands, businesses and communities and we cannot wait to welcome customers, both existing and new onboard, flying them safely to explore this fabulously quirky city.”