Virgin Atlantic. Photo: Courtesy of Virgin Atlantic SkyTeam's first and only UK member airline that enhances the global alliance's transatlantic network to and from London Heathrow and Manchester, Virgin Atlantic, is expanding its long-haul flights schedule this summer.
The airline that committed to Net Zero by 2050 will add more services from Manchester to Orlando, reaffirming its commitment to the North of England.
With Aer Lingus stepping back from long-haul operations at Manchester, Virgin Atlantic is increasing capacity on the Manchester-Orlando route by 12% for the peak of Summer 2026. Tickets went on sale on February 3, giving travelers in the region continued access to direct flights across the Atlantic.
Looking ahead, the airline plans a 17% capacity increase in Winter 2026 by deploying its larger A350-1000 aircraft on the route. Virgin Atlantic expects to further expand its Manchester services for Summer 2027, supporting long-term growth in the region.
This year marks 30 years of Virgin Atlantic flying from Manchester. The airline first touched down there in May 1996 with flights to Orlando. Today, it operates four US destinations from the northern hub: Orlando, New York, Atlanta, and Las Vegas, the only direct West Coast option from the North. Seasonal winter flights also connect Manchester directly to Barbados. These routes serve both leisure and business travelers and provide onward connections through partners like Delta Air Lines, IndiGo, and the SkyTeam alliance.
Virgin Atlantic is also bringing on a number of former Aer Lingus pilots, helping to keep skilled aviation jobs in the region. The airline is assisting passengers affected by the canceled Aer Lingus services, offering alternative Virgin Atlantic flights wherever possible.
Dave Geer, Virgin Atlantic’s Chief Commercial Officer, said, “Manchester has been our home in the North for thirty years, and we’re here for the long haul. Increasing capacity on our Orlando flights shows that commitment, making it easier for customers to travel across the Atlantic from their local airport. We’re also pleased to welcome experienced Aer Lingus pilots and help customers impacted by their changes. Manchester matters to us, and we’ll keep investing as demand grows.”
Stephen Turner, Chief Commercial Officer at Manchester Airport, added, “We’re proud to connect the people of the North with the world, and our partnership with Virgin Atlantic is central to that. There’s nothing like the buzz in the terminal before a flight to Orlando, and it’s great that Virgin Atlantic is adding more flights to Florida. We look forward to working together to strengthen links between our region, the US, and beyond.”