Virgin Atlantic launches Tel Aviv flights from London Heathrow

Sir Richard Branson’s Virgin Atlantic Airways – the UK’s second largest airline, has announces the launch of its new Israel service, bringing even more visitors to the Jewish state.

Virgin Atlantic will use an Airbus A330-300 aircraft, featuring 31 business class, 48 premium economy, and 185 economy seats, for its daily nonstop flights between London Heathrow and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion Airport.

The first 300 passengers to fly from Heathrow Airport took part in a launch ceremony held at the gate. At the end of the ceremony, the passengers received a gift box in the iconic red hue identified with Virgin Atlantic with a Hamsa print and the caption “Shalom Israel”, a pair of socks specially designed for the launch flight and mini candy representing their two countries: Krembo identified with Israel, and Tunnocks snacks that are especially popular with the British public.