Does Virgin Atlantic's Upper Class Live Up To The Hype? LHR to JFK 2024 in their A330 NEO

[@Rydia704]

Really enjoy the longer style videos but also don't apologise for negative points. I would rather know what I'm buying than have a Sam Chui "Everything is perfect" video. Also interesting you pointed out how efficient the immigration process was in the states using the app. More details like this please :)

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks! My videos seem to be getting longer as I do more of them so I won't restrain that trend... Q Quite a lot more I could have said actually but there's a fair bit more in the review of the return flight which will be along in a week or two...

[@STORMCLOUDGREY]

You are right about Virgin's 787s. Had to fly on Birthday Girl last year. It seriously needed a major overhaul. I believe they are nearly 10 years old now. Loved the A350 in lowly Premium though.

[@MattsPlanet]

They recently announced that those 787s will be around for a fair while yet too....

[@fazalm8687]

I’d commented 2 yrs ago that I’d love to see your A330Neo Virgin Atlantic review. It’s finally here..

[@MattsPlanet]

It took a while! But I got there....

[@JacobTarzi]

Another good matts planet video, you really should have more subscribers your videos are better than a lot of the big creators these days.

[@MattsPlanet]

I couldn't agree more!!! Getting there - albeit slowly.... I refuse to use the clickbait titles and thumbnails which is probably hurting me, but I'm happy with my progress and with the community I've built

[@itsjoel]

Also worth noting the A330 cruises a little slower than the 787 or A350. About 25kts or about 20 minutes slower on a flight of this length

[@MattsPlanet]

That's good to know - I always assume all aircraft are the same but over that distance it does make a difference.... Helps explain why the plane is so much cheaper!

[@itsjoel]

@@MattsPlanet with the narrowbodies A321LR's and such the difference is more like 50kts! Block time on the JetBlue service between LGW-JFK is 50 minutes longer than BA's 777 service!

[@idanceforpennies281]

The three point belt is required because of the distance to the bulkhead in front of you. If you submarine or fly over the top of a lapbelt you have more distance to accelerate.

[@MattsPlanet]

That does make sense.... I guess the QSuite bulkhead is reachable from a seated position so you can brace against it....

[@karlp8484]

That is correct. Having only a lapbelt isn't a huge problem if the seat in front of you is close because you're just going to bang into it and stop moving. If the forward barrier is far away you could really go flying and your forward speed will be much higher. I don't want to use the "C" word but I think we all know what we're talking about.

[@sergeyontheroad]

Thanks for sharing Matt! You bravely took one for your viewers! We appreciate it!

[@MattsPlanet]

Indeed - I do this so you don't have to!

[@jonnylons1]

Oh man, the bare feet at 12:03

[@MattsPlanet]

I didn't want to draw too much attention to them but yes, not nice!

[@ACsPianoCorner]

I’m glad someone mentioned it so I didn’t have too...😅.

[@benyhone]

Not sure if I’ve missed someone else saying it but the “Queen of the Skies’ name is a nod to the late Queen Elizabeth II with the registration of the aircraft being G-VEII.

[@MattsPlanet]

Someone else did mention it - I appreciate the name but I'm sure they could have found a form of words that didn't tread on the 747's toes....

[@658601u]

Matt, a spot on, fair and honest appraisal of your experience which is everyones experience. I think you have encapsulated it when you report that Virgin Atlantic are a 'mainstream' airline ..... nothing more which is 100% true. The Loft is such a disappointing negative 'addition' too, bring back the bar which was such a vote winner.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks for the affirmation - always nerve wracking to publish such a negative perception but I've had little push back on it so far....

[@kevju876]

your reviews are delightful thank you so much!

[@MattsPlanet]

Your comment was pretty delightful too!!! Thanks

[@PatrickBurford1]

I’ve stepped off a virgin premium flight today, I have to say I was very impressed. I wouldn’t call there service mainstream, as there crew are actually friendly and care about you

[@MattsPlanet]

Good to hear - the crew can be exceptional but they can also be meh....

[@PatrickBurford1]

@@MattsPlanethave you seen the announcement from virgin today? Certainly makes them look more mainstream…

[@Dan-78]

We just come back from Orlando and on the way over we had this plane, it got swapped last minute which was good as this was the newer one. I wasn’t in business but standard economy bulk head seats so plenty of leg room, queen of the skys I thought was lovely, much better than the older one coming home where screens were all dated and didn’t work right.

[@MattsPlanet]

Some of Virgin's older planes really are quite dated now so you won with that equipment change!

[@immiPlanet]

If you like watching Matt's Planet, you're going to like the longer video. Never flown Virgin so super interesting to see. Where I live, Virgin used to have their HQ a while back so I used to see all their red clothing adorned usually upbeat staff often, so I have some affinity towards them. I see myself flying BA for the forseeable!

[@MattsPlanet]

The conclusion from me, and no-one argued with me in the comments, was that Virgin aren't what they used to be...

[@jb8328]

The offer virgin gave to change flight are quite typical for oversales / denied boarding situations. Most airlines policy is to offer all pax the initial lower value offer to move for credits at reduced value, usually by email or app message. Some may accept or find it convenient to voluntarily move, so that usually solves their problem at lower cost without inconveniencing anyone too much. When it gets to day of operation or if no volunteers, then you enter EU/UK261 territory and they’ll be offering higher amounts including cash. If they need involuntary denied boarding, they’ll either target low customer value (I.e. redemption or basic fares), point to point pax or if there is a direct route to final destination with a partner airline. Essentially, easy to rebook pax or who you can reroute without paying the delay compensation.

[@MattsPlanet]

That all makes sense. It worked out for me though so no worries

[@ryang6813]

I’ve just flown TPA-LHR in Prem Economy and whilst the crew were great, I was left underwhelmed. Food was average at best, table was horrendous (I am a little portly) and very uncomfortable when I could actually get it deployed.

[@MattsPlanet]

I reviewed Virgins Premium a while back - its an OK product but snug if you're larger - even snugger when the person in front of you reclines....

[@martinpeacock1893]

On the virgin food "Issue". My father and Stepmother recently flew from Manchester to New York on Virgin PE and my Stepmother had a bad experience with the food on both directions. At first she put it down to the fact she had been a bit unwell in the lead up to the trip but was fine on the way back. My Dad ate the same meal as her on the way out and had the same issues. They have since looked into it and there are quite a few people online having had the same issues. Not sure if this is just s coincidence or a sign of an underlying issue however.

[@MattsPlanet]

I don't know who supplies Virgin's food... I wouldn't say I usually have a bland diet, but the richness of that butter dish was just a shock to the system... A blunt instrument to try and give a sensation of indulgence when the underlying product isn't delivering it....

[@markstrainsplanes]

Excellent summary and fits with my perceptions. I’m curious to refresh my knowledge of Virgin’s experience but I’ll miss out on my BA Tier Points! I’m not in quite as much a rush after seeing this! The Uber failure to get you to Drive Thru checkin is clearly frustrating - shame you didn’t have time to nip back to Hayes or Hounslow and try again!! I’ve also felt Virgin’s image and reality are often quite different but they always have loyal defenders - interesting to see your perspective.

[@MattsPlanet]

Cheers Mark. I'm looking forward to this video going live (I think!!!) as there are Virgin loyalists who will probably hate this interpretation of their offering.... The comments section will be fun on Sunday!

[@pixiholly]

Sorry to hear of the less than stellar experience, and hope you were soon recovered from the excess of butter. Thanks for taking us along. I remember my mum flying "upper class" really early on, and she was excited by it - times have clearly changed.

[@MattsPlanet]

Times have indeed changed! A full recovery has been achieved!

[@Dylanvignola]

I believe the shoulder strap for the seatbelt has to do with the distance you are from the next hard thing you would fly into in the event of an unplanned and abrupt deceleration. If it's close enough you can brace against the seat in front of you, if it's far enough away there's no chance of your head hitting anything, but when the distance is somewhere in-between, you need the shoulder strap to stop you flying forward

[@MattsPlanet]

That makes excellent sense - and it does seem to suggest the QSuite seat is closer to the screen. It's no real inconvenience and this is a great explanation!

[@twentyrothmans7308]

I'd give an arm and a leg for a lounge with an outdoors area. Onto the 330 - as you say, the storage is tight, and it seems a bit meh. Thank you for the Global Entry tip! Hope you had a good trip.

[@MattsPlanet]

I enjoyed the trip when I got off the plane!!! Videos will be made about what I did....

[@carlh8731]

Interesting review and I would agree with some of your negative comments. i have flown UC a number of times now and I would say the food and crew can be a let down for an otherwise good product. The food has been ok and had some interesting offerings, but I would not call it a selling point, which it should be for a premium cabin. The crew can be quite mixed, from attentive and pleasant to very business like and not at all attentive, even more so on night flights back from the US.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks - the crew do seem to party quite hard down route....

[@rrSBS2017]

Hope you spent some time in New York! How do you find the infrastructure around transportation to and from the two airports (LHR and JFK)?

[@MattsPlanet]

Not long in NYC this trip sadly... It is so expensive.... I think the airports are quite similar really - both are pretty well connected. At JFK you have to faff around with the airtrain to get to the proper trains and subway, while Heathrow has the tube, Hex and Lizzie line right there.... But Heathrow is a bit further out, so its probably a wash all things considered.

[@ianworthington2324]

You got away relatively unscathed with your Uber experience. Mine involved the driver aggressively unloading my camera bag then blocking my view whilst 10 grand of equipment grew legs. Uber's only response to my complaint was an offer to inquire if I'd left it in the vehicle.

[@MattsPlanet]

I generally avoid them as I hear stories like this but had few options this time! Sorry for your experience...

[@nickf619]

That’s a real shame with the Uber as I would try and do the same to enjoy the upper wing but honestly don’t know the best way of getting a taxi service into that entrance, maybe a different company? Wheely perhaps as they’re more upmarket?

[@MattsPlanet]

@@nickf619 Research where the barrier is and direct them yourself... You pull up to a barrier and get buzzed through. As it was a specific location in the Uber system I wasn't as active in directing my driver as I needed to be....

[@joebonthuys]

@@MattsPlanetI’m sorry but there’s plenty of proper cabs in London that are not Uber and know what they’re doing. Plus I imagine would be more reasonable too!

[@originalkk882]

Only ever been in a position to fly economy in VA. Would always choose BA over them (unless price was very good) for the following reasons: 1) reliability. My experience with VA has been that they were consistently late over 5-6 flights (plus lost bags at MIA). If a plane goes technical, BA more likely to be able to replace it. 2) cabin bag. Travelling for work, or with camera equipment plus laptop, VA persisted with stupidly low weight and size limit.

[@MattsPlanet]

All good reasons - its your money so spend it wisely!

[@twobins2060]

Telling it like it is. It's what we need to hear. Well done, Matt.

[@MattsPlanet]

Keeping it real!!!!

[@robcoles8493]

Always love your vids Matt. Keep em coming.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks! Plan to keep them coming for a good while yet!

[@038kp]

Another great video Matt. Looks like you're going to need to do another virgin video about the new dynamic points pricing. It's looking like bad news as far as I can tell. One of the best parts of Virgin was flat rate points booking. Read something which said "Based on what we saw when Delta (which owns 49% of Virgin Atlantic, remember) moved to dynamic award pricing, redemptions could get toppy indeed and extend into the hundreds of thousands of points for some flights. Delta’s standard reward price for return transatlantic flights is 750,000 SkyMiles in business class." Looks like I'm going to have to find someone to status match with!

[@MattsPlanet]

Indeed - it wouldn't be a Matt's Planet video if something wasn't announced days later that invalidates some of what I say.... Its perplexing its all happening within a month, that they only gave Head For Points 2 hours notice, and can't answer (or choose not to answer) very basic questions about what's going to happen....

[@038kp]

@@MattsPlanet it can only mean the devaluation is going to be mammoth. I reckon they're releasing details in increments because if they gave all the details upfront, people like headforpoints and yourself would crunch the numbers, show the horrendous points devaluation and then people would stop using them right away because points accrual would just be a waste.

[@nickf619]

Yes it doesn’t look a good picture on what’s going to happen to our points. Specially it seems for premium cabin redemptions. Doesn’t even seem to be much carrot with it either by reducing the crazy surcharges they want for redemptions

[@dapa9659]

Nice video. I noticed people were oblivious to your video recording. Can you share how to vlog without attracting attention at the airport?.

[@MattsPlanet]

I clip the camera to the strap of my backpack so (looking front on) its a black camera against a black strap so its not particularly obvious. But people aren't really looking anyway when they're in an airport! I am increasingly careful about including faces in videos though as there are some legal pitfalls of indiscriminate videoing

[@glenns5788]

Ever since I watched the classic movie "Airplane", I never eat fish on a plane.😀

[@MattsPlanet]

I try not to either, but this was a last resort choice!

[@eric8164]

Don't you find the screen to be very close in the new UC seats? They are streets better than the old ones, but that new suite does seem kind of cramped. I'm 6' and at 6'4" I'm amazed you fit in it at all.

[@MattsPlanet]

The screen was close enough to be able to use the touchscreen without too much difficulty but I didn't find it a huge problem - the QSuite screen is probably closer when I think about it.... And I didn't find the seat to be too cramped....

[@imsbvs]

I usually order a "special meal" when flying, and would have been very annoyed if the aircraft change meant this was not delivered. Global entry sounds great, running your video then discussing it ... some years ago I picked up a speeding ticket in Florida, I made sure the fine was paid and kept the receipt as I didn't want my next entry to USA to be accompanied by a straightjacket, intimate personal search and the next flight home with a comment "don't come back ...ever"

[@MattsPlanet]

I've emailed Virgin ' "You sent me an apology - can you tell me what you're apologising for???"

[@rogerbird380]

I have a soft spot for Virgin because my first trip in anything other than economy was a Premium Economy flight with Virgin to Delhi on the A340. A great video as usual, Matt, but it does look like a less impressive flight than i would have expected. I wonder who is the best for business class from London to New York. 🤔

[@MattsPlanet]

A few people had great experiences with Virgin back in the day - me included! Which was part of the inspiration for this video.... BA is pretty good these days and is working on their consistency... Have a United flight booked in the new year as well as Aer Lingus and Iberia transatlantics.... The fact that the answer to that question is not obvious is telling!

[@rogerbird380]

​@@MattsPlanet I'll look forward to seeing what you make of those other options 👍🏻

[@alexmcwhirter6611]

@@MattsPlanet Hello Matt, I would hope you try J class withJetBlue in the future. Yes I know JetBlue operates narrow-body aircraft but every vlogger who samples JetBlue says its premium cabin is superior to others.

[@jb8328]

Big problem for VS is they just don’t have a network or frequency that can compete with BA. If you’re an infrequent or high end leisure traveller who flies to places in their network then I can guess they work. For anyone regularly travel to different places or who can acquire and benefit from status on BA, then VS are secondary option.

[@MattsPlanet]

Agree with that - great if they go where you want to be going! Less so if they don't

[@jb8328]

@@MattsPlanet BA also been quite tactical in their planning, e.g. Aer Lingus on MAN flights to dilute the network. Long term, hard to see what market share VS keep outside of being niche leisure airline

[@steve-marsh]

Great video. I think every ‘business class’ seat should have at least enough storage for a laptop, I’m stumped why they offer so little. Is deep storage difficult to clean or something? I can’t work out the reason Virgin consistently overlook it. And their on board catering is Wetherspoons standard at best, certainly not premium. All in all not worth the money I’d say (despite the fact you’re really paying for the space)

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks mate. Good points - getting up to store a laptop in the overheads is a right pain and its impossible if the tray is deployed. I think Spoons food may be better.... And I am toying with a video about seat space and how you pay for it although it may be too boring even compared to my content!!

[@jaydub51512]

I echo the endorsement of Global Entry! A bit of a hassle to apply, though the interview-on-arrival helps if you fly into an airport that offers it. It has saved me hours in immigration queues - well worth the $120 cost for 5 years!

[@MattsPlanet]

Indeed - I made a video about it a while back and getting it sorted on arrival is a real perk for us non-US residents

[@pennybaxter4]

I love the the A330-neo upper class cabin it’s a very good hard product especially the row 1 seats .

[@MattsPlanet]

The seat was good and was very good as a bed - something I'll feature in my next video

[@IndochineUK]

Happy to see you’ve treated yourself to a nice new mic plus a dead kitten. Initially I thought it was an old school trade show sticky bug without its ribbon! Your timing of this video is great for me and consolidates my purchasing choice of flying Delta from MIA (to book later today). Even if I have a transfer in JFK, I still think it’s preferable to what you experienced here, and less Icona Pop on boarding.

[@MattsPlanet]

The kitten had a good life.... Not sure Delta is heaps better!

[@kevinnolan8586]

Great Video Matt,Honest opinions,I'm not convinced by their upper class offering, You are looking and sounding great too.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks Kevin - feeling great too!

[@gordonwalters7113]

You do sound as if escalating into despair, but that reflects my own experience that Virgin tends to win hearts over actual delivery. They ooze positivity and attract a higher proportion of experience travellers in their premium cabins. Which may explain me having seen more seriously drunk people in Virgin upper class than on any other carriers. Perhaps that justifies the lack of self-service bar that I'd witnessed before. Virgin know their market, service it well - but disappoint transgressors used to more.

[@MattsPlanet]

Get people so drunk they don't notice that the food is so poor??

[@herenow6953]

Virgin lost it's mojo back in the mid / late 90s. I used to travel with them a lot from LHR to SFO and LHR to HKG - in all cases, their Upper Class was 'I want that!' though I travelled in their Premium Economy which back then was more like Business Class. The things that made them different then have gone now. Watch their advert 'Virgin, 25 and still red hot' and you can see their dilemma - the difference then was beautiful young blonde women and sexy pilots, whereas now their 'eco / woke' credentials disallow this. So they are stuck with trying to make themselves look sexy whilst failing in every way. Including the naff violet led lighting - yak! I dont choose to fly Virgin anywhere these days. A shame - they used to be good fun, now they are so stuck up their globalist fundaments that they barely know what fun is anymore.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks for that - a good summary. That lighting really is annoying!

[@SotiriosAligiannis]

Never flown Virgin before. I have 70K Virgin points and an upgrade voucher. Would you recommend using it to experience upper class by booking prem eco with points and using the voucher? I heard I have to pay the much higher taxes that upper class is coming with, and I'm a bit reluctant to shell out a bag of money just for the experience. My other alternative is to use the points for Delta or KLM premium cabins, or even ANA if I ever find availability. Any advice?

[@MattsPlanet]

That's what I did (which I'll talk about in the video about the return flight) - it was 35k points, a voucher but I still had to pay £996 in taxes.... Which made the whole thing quite expensive, and more expensive than you can buy a revenue fare for from Northern Europe to New York. I think there's better value to be had from AMS or CDG on KLM / AF, mainly as the taxes are a fraction of Virgin's, but you can't use the voucher

[@scopegaming9209]

In the same boat. I think youd be better using it with partners. The taxes alone are eye watering and alongside videos like Matt's I would steer clear.

[@jb8328]

The loft area looks so inadequate but too small. Not a huge fan of bars on board, normally found them quite under used. Concept is good but usage being low suggests not necessarily required.

[@MattsPlanet]

I thought it wasn't one thing or another really....

[@Petertjeehh]

Outstanding video Matt. It had so much in it, I simply loved this one for the detailled opinion with a quircky joke here and there. Still here and absolutely enjoying your content, well done!

[@MattsPlanet]

Hey mate - good to hear from you! Thanks for sticking around

[@ScottMatthews-gk8ef]

It’s been 30 years since I’ve flown Virgin, doubt I will again. Cheers for the Global Entry App heads up 👍🏻

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks - Global Entry really is well worth a look!

[@ScottMatthews-gk8ef]

@@MattsPlanet I’ve had GE for a few years, would be absolute hell without it - just wasn’t aware of the App but no more two minute queues for me now I know!

[@MattsPlanet]

@@ScottMatthews-gk8ef The App is relatively new and JFK was only added as an approved arrival point a month or so back. Well worth looking at

[@schford]

Very interesting and informative! I had considered retrying Virgin after enough tier points gathered but don't think I will bother. cheers Stuart

[@MattsPlanet]

If the food was better I'd be far more positive.... But it was just as poor on the flight back

[@matthewgordon-banks7553]

Other viewers comments largely say what I feel - I'm not "hip" either! - but here goes otherwise: I first flew Upper Class in 1994 in the 'early days'. I told 'Richard' to his face it was "amateur" and much work needed doing eg "What wines do you have"? Answer: "red and white" 😊 I never forgot that. I was in a position to influence opening up LHR and I supported VS entry to LHR because it helped real competition and fares. It also gave BA some much needed competition. Choosing a flight can be personal and your video(s) tell it how it is; which is why we all love them.

[@MattsPlanet]

I'm sure there are a few stories you can never tell from those days! Heathrow won in the end as Virgin is no longer at Gatwick!!! A few exceptional circumstances drove that, of course....

[@southernairs]

Nice video covering the Upper Class in 2024 Matt! I think for any long-time Virgin flyer, the A330neo will probably be a disappointment. I think the influence from Delta Airlines (compare to previous influence Singapore Airlines) has caused Virgin to lose its touch that it once held during the 1980s towards the mid-2000s. I hope SkyTeam will get them some more sway on the Atlantic market against BA. Regards- Tyler

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks Tyler. I think the a330 has the same seats as delta so the influence is clearly there...

[@travellerseko]

Thanks for the video m8. I was wondering if you can post a video regarding AMEX Business Gold card. Me and my wife has AMEX BA premium plus. But she is self employed and we decided to get AMEX business card under the name of her ltd company with 40.000 rewards. I’ll get AMEX platinum next year under my name as well. We are trying to maximise all points etc. Thanks again for all the videos you posted for us.

[@MattsPlanet]

Hello again! As before...

[@peterhastings703]

At 11:09 you say 8 rows of seats in a 1-2-1 config giving a total of 24 seats (a number repeated later on), but my maths makes it 32 seats in all! 😊

[@MattsPlanet]

Peter! I make a mistake in every video. Then when someone points it out in the comments, I pretend it was deliberate!!! So congratulations for spotting.... You'd never guess I was an accountant for 25 years would you???

[@FrazerThomson]

Great report. Won’t ever fly Virgin due to an experience my friends had in premium from london to US.

[@MattsPlanet]

Well there you go! A sample of 1 is perhaps a poor basis for making that sort of decision, but I suppose it depends on what the experience was!

[@legionnairegonk4425]

My problem with Virgin is that they always seem to try too hard to be hip, cool and trendy. Which ironically to me means they aren't really any of those things. Instead it's the airlines that do it effortlessly and without fuss (like Finnair?) that win me over. Consequently I always find myself totally ignoring Virgin whenever I am looking for flights.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks - that mirrors my experience. An old colleague used to say "Don't tell me you're funny, make me laugh" and I feel that's the same here. The more they say they're trendy the less I am inclined to believe them.....

[@irishinusa1615]

I agree with you 👍

[@mooboo6603]

@@MattsPlanetHey I noticed there's no review online of Newcastle's new Aspire lounges - a gap in the market for you!

[@IWTBF]

And that horrible pink purple mood lighting is awful

[@sebastien79a]

Soup is actually quite a good option in many cases on planes, as are Indian dishes

[@MattsPlanet]

Indeed - its just so boring!!!

[@jimmyjames6492]

Thanks for the info + video!

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks for watching

[@DriverJD]

Thanks for another excellent video Matt! As a Virgin Atlantic Flying Club status holder, I too have issues with Virgin Atlantic's product, most notably the onboard food. Virgin no longer serve any beef onboard or in their Clubhouses in an attempt to appear "sustainable" along with an onslaught of vegan options with no meat alternative. What this actually results in is customers paying top money to fly in Upper Class receiving a sub standard offering. Virgin are in my opinion, a below par mainstream airline trying too hard to be different which appears cheap and stingy. Their staff are also quite inconsistent. Some Virgin crews are excellent but a sizeable number of them try to be zaney and cool. With BAs Club Suite product improving, I think I know where I will spend my money for my future Business Class/First Class trips to gain status.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks for that - the point about beef makes sense - not something they choose to feature in their advertising!!

[@r12004rewy]

As you mentioned when Virgin started up they were something different, fast forward to the Delta intervention and they became mundane and nothing out of the ordinary, fancy colour seats and lighting dosent really make it these days. The food presentation on board was poor and to lose your pre flight order really isn't acceptable. I hope you have a better flight on the way back, if not stick to BA

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks - it was probably a bit better on the way back but the food was still poor....

[@christuck-n7e]

totally agree, i dont know why they didnt keep the seats they had on the ex air berlin aircraft

[@MattsPlanet]

Good point although I remember people still had grounds for criticising them!

[@NatalieBudgets]

Great Video Matt!

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks Nat!

[@robertgrady5509]

Just discovered you a great honest video …. I flew upper to lax last week and saw so many differences from 3-5 years ago not all good … agree with food portions and food not as special as it once was … also the snacks they put out minimal these days … I got more from premium the wander wall a great idea 💡 that sadly these days looks nothing like when it was first launched nicely Presented and fully stocked … no it’s a few snacks thrown in one section Also got stung on the bid for upgrade on return flight ✈️ I’d carefully bid before my flight per person sadly was outbid virgin send me an email while on holiday saying my bid was not successful but if I increase it may win …. But in the email they put my total bid for 2 ….. when you click the link it opens with a price pre set suggestion ( which you can change up or down but not less than the total bid you originally offered ) ??? Which I found misleading as when you open the link the price is per person …. Not total bid as in the virgin email they send you ….so I ended up paying double I was expecting or could afford … virgins response read t& c nothing we can do 😮

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks for that. I get the feeling that Virgin needs every penny they can get these days...

[@nickf619]

@@MattsPlanetnot sure what’s going on with Virgin, I hear all sorts of rumours about them not doing so well sadly. I’ve read a lot of Virgin loyalists from days gone by no longer going out there way to travel with them

[@lvthud]

That's a shame, the one thing VS does get right every time on the food front is a curry, i've yet to ave a bad one. The crisps, I honestly cannot remember a time when I did get crisps with the first drinks service and i've been flying on VS since '89. I tend to fly VS a couple of times a year, mostly because I refuse to fly BA and there are times I have to be in London, when (which is pretty often) VS manage to mess up the food ask for the premium or economy menu, the cabin crew normally will not have a problem with this and finding a person in premium who would like to switch their meal for one from Upper isn't difficult (they have no idea they are getting the short end, but end up happy anyways). For a few decades VS has been more PR over substance. They actually ran an ad campaign that showed that showed a picture of the economy cabin with the wording along the lines of "Our economy is better than their First Class". I mean there is false advertising and then there is just stupid.

[@MattsPlanet]

For a Premium meal to be better than Upper is pretty damning....

[@CyclespeedTours]

Did very much the same journey a few weeks ago with my wife and 2 daughters (in their20's). I booked the whole of Row 1 both ways - out was A350 and back was A330, so I paid up for the Retreat Suites. Worth it? Almost, because it feels like a 1st class seat. However, the food choice was very underwhelming, absolutely nothing special there at all, and the wines nothing great either. Qatar, my favourite, blows them out of the water. Thought A330 seats better than A350. Staff were very friendly, especially in the Clubhouse. We all loved the Virgin Redhead cocktail!

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks - expensive trip - glad you enjoyed it!!! The A330 seat is a lot better built than the A350 for sure...

[@red.guevarra]

Every time I see that Folkestone sign, I somehow think of "The Stone of Scone" and then I start craving actual scone for afternoon tea, with jam and cream. Wait wait...fish and chips at the lounge? We've got a winner! They had fish and chips at the American Airlines Flagship lounge at LAX when I was there, but it was ice cold and I'm glad I didn't film that visit for my channel.

[@MattsPlanet]

Decent fish and chips in Folkestone and they were decent in the lounge too...

[@Adam_in_France]

A great honest review, I enjoyed watching that. Shame the product wasn't as expected. The apology seemed almost pointless, sounds as thought they didn't even register the issue, so presumably nothing will improve for others. Ah well, why should they - people will still pay to fly with them so I guess there's little need on their part! Look forward to seeing where the next journey takes you :)

[@MattsPlanet]

Merci Adam. I asked Virgin what they were apologising for and they replied the loss of food order and change of equipment - they also gave me 5000 points....

[@richardstreet7518]

MATT -.IMMINENT Viegin flying Club changes according to.HFP

[@MattsPlanet]

Indeed. It wouldn't be a Matt's Planet video if an announcement wasn't made invalidating some if it within days of publication!

[@IWTBF]

13:24 shocking that’s the only closed storage space.

[@MattsPlanet]

Not much, is it?

[@garysumnall722]

Am I missing something with regards to your gripe on storage, what exactly do you want to store that needs loads of room?

[@MattsPlanet]

For me, a camera and camera equipment. For everyone, a book, a magazine, a tablet, a laptop, glasses, phone, passport, wallet etc etc etc. When sleeping, glasses, hearing aids, your watch.....

[@garysumnall722]

I only have my phone and passport and never though of all that other stuff Matt 👍

[@MattsPlanet]

@@garysumnall722 You perhaps don't need any of that other stuff, but if you have it, that Virgin seat is a right pain!

[@garysumnall722]

👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

[@JJ-vy2rh]

​@@MattsPlanetmostly a men's problem as women have a handbag, just put your stuff in a backpack.

[@anthonywalsh2164]

Thanks Matt. I enjoy your work, especially topics like matrix! But the reviews are great. No click bait titles, no underhand sponsorship, telling it as you find it, and no preciousness! Great to see a Barossa wine there. 🦘

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks for that - it means a lot to hear this sort of feedback...

[@adrias78]

Thank you for the great and honest video! Look at the bright side, at least you were not downgraded :)

[@MattsPlanet]

They tried to downgrade me but I resisted!!! Thanks for watching!

[@jamesa0330]

Thanks Matt. Good, helpful vidro. As always I feel that Virgin ends up “half assed”. Not for me.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks James

[@lesbrown2724]

I think that the lack of storage space in the new seat is very annoying for many people but bearing in mind that the old style upper class seats ( which they are still using on plenty of planes) is notorious for lack of storage it is clearly something that Virgin do not believe to be important. One point that you made which is very important is that despite the "woke" agenda the staff tend to be very good. Whereas the ground staff at BA seem to have been selected from people rejected from working at prisons because they were too unpleasant.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks Les - indeed this seat is a world away from the 787 coffin! I haven't found BA's crew to be too bad on recent trips but lots of people will agree with what you say!

[@richardstreet7518]

Too much substitution ' I love the A330 layout (both models) but book it and on the day it's a 787 ... plus I struggle to find value from the points .. cash fares often cheaper than using points plus ridiculous charges... and redeeming points @ .55p a point... perhaps the links to AF and KLM will open up some different options. Great vlog Matt

[@MattsPlanet]

Cheers Richard. Some of the AF / KLM Caribbean routes can be excellent value - much better value than redeeming on Virgin itself so all is not lost if you have points!

[@joebonthuys]

Much prefer the clubhouse over the Emirates lounge at LHR, even think I prefer it over the Emirates business lounge at DXB too.

[@MattsPlanet]

I must confess its a while since I went to either Emirates lounge so you may be quite correct here... But I think the broader point is valid!

[@martynmiller4247]

Looking at that photo, I feel certain that you won 2nd place at the 2024 gurning competition? Well done, congratulations.

[@MattsPlanet]

I still have all my teeth so will never win it!

[@simonwest9450]

17:13 I was in for a shock when I preordered my meal for my return leg in Premium. Because the nutrition details are there, I learned one of the options had 9 grams of salt in it!

[@MattsPlanet]

That's a lot of salt... Not Virgins' best feature!

[@tonyracks2956]

hi matt hope you are well i commented to you twin yesterday (sat) on the cruise page ........ we went upper class to MIA and we had the neo i 100 per cent agree with all what you posted here it,s the staff that make it more enjoyable they are very good .... keep well and thanks for the video

[@MattsPlanet]

Cheers Tony - my identical twin mentioned your comment.... The crew can make a Virgin experience for sure

[@alexmcwhirter6611]

Thanks Matt for such a detailed KZbin. I remember SQ trying to sell its shareholding in VS ... it took years before another carrier came along. SQ branded VS as being underperforming.

[@Thepastwasexciting]

VS was inferior to SQ

[@JJ-vy2rh]

SQ is fantastic​@@Thepastwasexciting

[@MattsPlanet]

Sounds about right!!! I saw some financials for Virgin and it seems to be very rare that they actually make a profit....

[@CB-DW]

I purposely planned flights on A350 for my wife & I to & from JFK from LHR last year so we could sample the new upper class suites. Aircraft on both legs were switched to tired the old 787 suites. Felt like we’d wasted 350k points. Virgin weren’t interested in my complaint. I’ve still got 300k points to use but can’t bring myself to bother with them at the moment!

[@MattsPlanet]

Indeed - I got lucky with this equipment change - the masochist in me perhaps wouldn't have minded a switch to the 787 as it would have made for a good video.... Anyhoo!!!! Paris or Amsterdam to quite a few places in the Caribbean on AF/KLM is around 100,000 virgin points return per person. Just saying....

[@CB-DW]

@@MattsPlanet Thanks! I will definitely look at those as options next year as I'm really not loving VA anymore!

[@andrewstorm8240]

How do you get global entry? As I only travel to US once annually but tired of the 1.5h queue on arrival

[@MattsPlanet]

There's a video on the channel that walks through the process ...

[@andrewstorm8240]

@@MattsPlanet ok you have to visit a screening centre in the US or on arrival, thanks

[@chatucker]

Hey Matt, you mentioned that there’s a global entry app thing for the US these days, d’you have the name of the app for me please? I have upcoming travel to the states in two weeks with quite a short layover in Denver and any minute saved would be quite welcome indeed.

[@MattsPlanet]

Just look for Global Entry in whatever app store you use. Need to log into it with your known traveller number but its very straightforward

[@chatucker]

@@MattsPlanethey Matt - thanks so much for this tip - I was through Denver CBP in literally seconds.

[@charliebrown5]

Thank You ✈️

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks for watching!

[@gordonwalters7113]

No Matt. BA have enhanced their choice of onboard spirits. The absence of brandy inflight or inlounge annoys me no end as it is a spirit that doesn't attract a caffeine mixer.

[@MattsPlanet]

Ah yes, the magical "enhancement".... My prostate doctors have advised me to avoid all caffeine so I may be the only passenger aboard looking for a spirit that doesn't need a caffeine mixer!!!

[@Fat_Cat_747]

After missing the Upper Class drive up ramp, I would have gone back there on foot and filmed myself doing an air steering wheel with brum-brum sound effects. I have a particular gripe with Virgin and indeed also with many a reviewer for underplaying it. That's the reduction in width in PE of a measured 2.5 inches. They botched the whole cabin design of the A350 starting at the front and were tempted to use the width of the A350 cabin to squeeze in an extra seat in each row. Its now at the low end of PE seat width, nice though it may be other terms. Its the same seat on the A330-900neo. On the A330-900neo there is the least point in paying for PE, as economy is good as it goes in the fleet while PE its the fundamentally inferior new type. The greatest point in booking PE is on the 787, as it has the meanest of economy experiences whereas the PE seats are still of the old school wide variety. Actually I can see the value of it over going Upper Class on a westward US flight if you like window seats and the views.

[@MattsPlanet]

Cheers FC. Can I call you Fatty??? Catty??? Anyhoo - interesting comments. I reviewed Virgin's PE cabin (on a 787 actually) and found it a bit weird but with a sample of 1 its hard to match the detailed knowledge you have. And you're right - westbound then PE or even economy is fine, especially if you can get an exit row window....

[@Fat_Cat_747]

@@MattsPlanet Its equally true that I am very fat and also that I am a cat, but I think 'Fatty' has the better ring to it if you want to shorten my name. I actually have a fantasy notion of having an airline that has no business or first, but instead does economy and PE very well. I have no idea if it would be viable. I'd run PE has a sort of super-PE, being somewhat like Virgin's very old business class used to be but less large. No lie flats but really good padding, food and amenities. I do think for most transatlantic travel lie flat is BS and in terms of many biz seats with tiny foot cubbys and narrow widths its often a poor solution for sleeping anyway. I'd have economy as 18-19 inch wide and keeping existing econ seat arm rests, 32 and 35 inch pitch sold separately. PE pitch as 42 but don't allow ridiculous recline. Width 22 or 23. Everyone gets good food and especially in PE. Bigger toilets, regularly kept free of piss pools and skid marks, luxury provisions within including toilet paper with aloe vera for your botty. A few seats removed to provide machines for movement e.g. stepper. I'd call economy Bestest Economy and the expensive seats would be Comfort Class. Babies would have to go in a pod. I'd make the funniest safety videos ever with violent cartoon depiction of the consequences of crashes, accidents and misbehavior. Drink would be free flowing in Comfort but order would be kept using truncheons. I might even have a standing up bar and also an onboard massage parlour with happy endings ( with Comfort Class priority ). I'd call it .......... NotShit Air

[@MattsPlanet]

@@Fat_Cat_747 You just need to raise a couple of billion to make it a reality!!! Invite me on the inaugural!!!!

[@michaelj3282]

Great vid, still don't think you can beat Emirates Business on the 380, a proper bar!

[@MattsPlanet]

Qatar has one too on the A380. Proper facility!

[@michaelj3282]

@@MattsPlanet Crazy thing is, both Islamic countries. Couldn't make it up.

[@JJ-vy2rh]

​@@michaelj3282what's your point they're catering for a types of customers

[@cundallthepieman]

Matt, hopefully you have to try their economy product.... i am a big fan for a family, but it is a shame that they have been cutting down their routes to really only India / USA and the caribbean

[@MattsPlanet]

I've flown them in Premium and that was a bit weird too, but not in economy... Not since 1997 at least! And their network is odd too - cherry picking the leisure routes and a few where there's minimal competition

[@cundallthepieman]

@@MattsPlanet as someone who mainly flys in Y - i do like their hard product and their staff... We fly to MAN / LHR to BGI and enjoy it, we will also be flying lhr to mbj next year and also hopefully man to las too, but i have to agree their network is rubbish

[@IWTBF]

8:34 if it’s no smoking might explain it?

[@MattsPlanet]

Perhaps but it is up some odd stairs....

[@alfaa_44]

Never flown with virgin as they have a lack of destinations compared to British airways. Also I find Virgin too flashy as BA is much less like that and they just get on with it and serve a good hard and soft product. Matt was the flight worth the cost of how much you paid in miles and cash as I would love to know what it is like for price compared to BA

[@MattsPlanet]

I talk about the cost in the video I make about the return leg which will be along in a couple of weeks.... It was 35k points (although I booked when a 20% discount was running so paid 28k points) plus £998.... BA is 85k points (off peak) plus £350

[@jiangni2236]

Virgin Atlantic is always more style over substance, especially like your point about the potato crisps instead of nuts, and I always find their meal portions to be very very small. The mains are like the size of an appetizer and the appetizers are like the size of an amuse-bouche. Also I find their materials onboard to be stylish but cheap in quality, especially the finishings on the A350. Haven't flown the A330neo so can't say. While Upper Class is overrated, their premium economy is most often good and a good value for money.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks - the A330 seemed mush sturdier than the A350 - I made a video about my flight on that plane and a part of the seat was held on with velcro despite being less than a year old....

[@123malichi]

I flew virgin from London to Dublin in 1987.

[@MattsPlanet]

Back in the days of a domestic network. That was highly regarded if I recall?

[@tobymitchell2607]

Great video!

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks!

[@papi8659]

Great video Matt, don't see any reason to go out of my way to fly Virgin ever again , Storage looks dreadful compared with AeroMexico, Saudia etc

[@MattsPlanet]

Flying Saudia soon actually... Keen to fly AeroMexico too, mainly as it will mean I'll be in Mexico at the end of the flight!

[@VeganWithAraygun]

Delta Airlines and Anheuser-Busch...if they haven't bought you out already eventually they may do just that

[@MattsPlanet]

For the right price, my channel may be available!

[@ss-xy2im]

Great vid

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks!

[@peetbothma1500]

Thanks Matt for another very informative video👌. NEVER have fish on an Aeroplane🤢. Virgin flies from SA on a code share with SAA but one does not earn tier miles on the Voyager program🥵. From down south there are certainly a few better seats significantly more affordable for us😇😎🇿🇦

[@MattsPlanet]

I wouldn't have had fish had there been any credible alternative.... Although I maintain it was the butter rather than the sauce that did for me!!!

[@peetbothma1500]

@@MattsPlanet Must say the oiliness of the sauce was vrry clearly visible in your shot of that meal. Good thing the WC was dark and Upper Class😂😂

[@caroljameson1515]

Surely 1-2-1 for 8 rows = 32 seats rather than 24 🤔

[@MattsPlanet]

You'd never guess I used to be an accountant would you!!!! Well done for (ahem) spotting the deliberate error! I make one in every video.... Does make my point about the narrow menu even more valid though!

[@timtony7153]

Hi Matt, Watching this video, felt like running a marathon!!! Jeez, it just doesn't work,......at all!!! Awful for the money you pay......Bet BA is happy knowing this is what their main competitor is offering. Stay well Thomas

[@MattsPlanet]

Cheers Thomas.... I wonder if anyone from Virgin, or indeed BA, will see this!

[@paulmk5841]

Looks pretty underwhelming to me Matt. think I will stick with BA for now Would it be possible for you to share a link to the App you mentioned for the 'Global Entry' ? Many thanks as always

[@MattsPlanet]

Its the regular global entry app available in app stores. Doesn't do much except for this pre-clearance photograph

[@paulmk5841]

@@MattsPlanet Cheers Matt. I'm sure i have seen it, but never downloaded it. Thank you for the reminder. If your going out of T5 at LHR on the morning of the 19th of Oct I will get you in to the Concorde Lounge. Be lucky matey.

[@gordonwalters7113]

@@MattsPlanet I found the app delayed my entry by 10 minutes. Quite bizarre as I had to stand back and let other GE people pass while the systems updated my entry. Given the new paperless, face recognition booths I'd just stick with those.

[@janetslifkin8253]

The bed is like a sheet of concrete

[@MattsPlanet]

I didn't think it was that bad, but I do prefer a harder bed...

[@farangtravels3956]

Nice one

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks

[@thevirgintraveller]

I'd agree with your review, interestingly, in my opinion, the LHR - JFK route seems to deliver the worst service. The food has been on the decline for a few years now, though the seat on the A330 NEO provides a rather good sleep.

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks - your name suggests you're a virgin loyalist but I suppose it could mean other things too!!! I did sleep quite well on the return flight which I'll talk about in the next video in a week or two

[@thevirgintraveller]

​@@MattsPlanet I could be a loyalist or many other things! I've had quite a few things go go wrong on my Virgin flights over the past 12 months, one biggie being on the JFK route. That being said, when I have reached out to customer services, they have put things right...rather generously.

[@RonanandAlex]

We have yet to try Virgin Atlantic although this video seems to be the "True" side of Virgin, so not sure we will! The seat looks nice, but that lack of storage is rather annoying and the lounge always reminds me of a "Pay to use" lounge not a actual airline lounge!

[@MattsPlanet]

Thanks - I think the lounge is one of the best bits of the experience, but I see what you mean! It is a bit large and characterless when you think about it!

[@RonanandAlex]

@@MattsPlanet 100% our thinking around it, I guess then what rating would you give the lounge out of all the T3 ones?