Virgin Atlantic to debut in South America with new São Paulo route

Virgin Atlantic will launch flights between London Heathrow and São Paulo, Brazil, in 2020.

Flying daily between London Heathrow and São Paulo Guarulhos International Airport, the 11 hr 55 min flight is Virgin Atlantic’s first foray into the South American continent.

The airline will operate a Boeing 787 aircraft on the route.

The new service aims to capitalise on the fast-growing Brazilian economy, which benefits from year-round transatlantic demand.

São Paulo is the commercial capital of Brazil and one of the top 20 global economic cities; it’s the largest city in the Americas (after New York) for multinational companies to have offices, and provides a platform for Virgin Atlantic to broaden its offering to existing corporate customers.

The booming tourism industry complements the lucrative business market – and Virgin Holidays intends to launch a full product offering within Brazil for the first time. 

Brazil’s position of being the number one import and export country in South America will also make São Paulo a popular cargo route.

With multiple tonnes of capacity each day, Virgin Atlantic expects to carry regular shipments of car parts, pharmaceuticals, food and agricultural products.

Juha Jarvinen, Virgin Atlantic executive vice president – commercial, commented: “This year marks the start of a new phase of growth for Virgin Atlantic as we work to become the most loved travel company.

“São Paulo represents an incredible opportunity for our business, and we’re very excited to be flying to a brand-new continent for the first time.

“There are a significant number of corporate customers, and multi-national businesses, located in this powerhouse of South America who can now enjoy the Virgin Atlantic experience on this busy international route.”

Virgin Atlantic has embarked on an ambitious growth plan, with the airline focusing on delivering irresistible, effortless and great value experiences that customers love.

In 2019, Virgin Atlantic will welcome the first four of 12 Airbus A350-1000 to its fleet which not only boasts a totally redesigned on board experience for customers but will help transform the fleet into one of the quietest and most fuel efficient in the sky.

Marcelo Álvaro Antônio, ministry of tourism – Brazil, added:  “The increase of air connectivity is one of the priorities of the Government in order to make Brazil more competitive in the global tourism scenario. This new flight is a great achievement for our country.”