Virgin Atlantic has marked a quarter century of flying between London and Miami with founder and president Sir Richard Branson joining a commemorative flight to the US city.
The airline claims to have carried around 4.5 million passengers on the route since its launch in 1986, contributing an estimated $7.4 billion to the Miami tourism economy. Daily flights from Heathrow are operated by an Airbus A340-600.
Virgin Holidays managing director Amanda Wills said: “It’s fantastic to be celebrating this landmark anniversary for one of our most popular destinations. “Miami has been a firm favourite with our customers since Virgin Holidays was launched and they continue to love its vibrancy, colour and style.
“We’ve sent hundreds of thousands of people on holiday to Miami over the years and we’re looking forward to many more enjoying our industry-leading mix of product and service there in the future.”
Sir Richard said: “Miami was the second route Virgin Atlantic launched two years after the airline began and to think that we are now a world class airline with 32 long haul destinations is a dream come true.
“Miami is a key route for Virgin Atlantic with many business travellers commuting on the route each year and holiday makers jetting out to enjoy Miami and its many beautiful beaches.”