Virgin Atlantic raises Manchester capacity to help fill Aer Lingus long-haul void

Virgin Atlantic is stepping in with extra flights from Manchester to Orlando following Aer Lingus withdrawing its long-haul flying from the northern hub.

Capacity to the destination in Florida is being raised by 12% in the summer peak with additional flights bookable from February 3.

The airline is also increasing Manchester-Orlando capacity by 17% for winter 2026 by deploying a larger Airbus A350-1000 on the route.

Further capacity increases from Manchester expected to follow for summer 2027, according to the airline.

Virgin Atlantic has recruited a number of Aer Lingus pilots, helping to retain highly skilled aviation roles in the region. 

The airline is working closely with Aer Lingus to support customers affected by cancelled services, including re-protecting passengers onto Virgin Atlantic flights where possible. 

Chief commercial officer Dave Geer said: “Manchester has been our home in the north for 30 years and we’re in it for the long haul. 

“Increasing capacity on our Orlando services is a clear signal of that commitment, ensuring customers can continue to travel across the Atlantic from their local airport. 

“We’re also proud to be welcoming experienced Aer Lingus pilots into Virgin Atlantic and to be supporting customers impacted by their changes. Manchester matters to us, and we’ll continue to invest in the region as demand grows.” 

His Manchester Airport counterpart Stephen Turner said: "We are proud to connect the people of the north with the world - and our partnership with Virgin Atlantic plays a key role in doing that. 

“There’s nothing quite like the excitement you feel in the terminal before a flight to Orlando so it’s great that Virgin Atlantic is reaffirming its commitment to its home in the north and adding more flights to Florida. 

“We look forward to working together in years to come to strengthen links between our region, the US and beyond."