Virgin Australia will boost its Boeing 737 MAX 8 capacity with four new aircraft set to be delivered in the second half of 2023 in line with the airline’s fleet growth program and decarbonisation transition.
The Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, which are on top of another four MAX 8 aircraft announced in April 2022, will reduce emissions by 15 per cent per flight compared with 737NG aircraft and play an important part in Virgin Australia’s journey towards net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
The extra aircraft capacity reflects Virgin Australia’s broader growth strategy, bringing the total Boeing 737 fleet to 92 aircraft with the first delivery of the additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft expected in 2023.
In addition, Virgin Australia will have priority access to a Boeing 737NG full-flight simulator in Jandakot, near Perth, which will deliver a 25 per cent increase in training capacity for more than 200 WA-based pilots as the airline continues its Boeing 737 aircraft fleet growth.
Simulator access will be available by April 2023 through a long-term partnership with global aviation training provider CAE and the WA simulator is the first available to Virgin Australia outside of Queensland and Victoria.
Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka said the announcements demonstrate the airline’s commitment to the Australian aviation market and sustainable growth for long-term success.
“We will have increased pilot training capacity shortly and I am delighted to reach another major milestone with our team growing to over 7,000 team members, which is a real indication of the growth delivered in a very short time by Virgin Australia,” Ms Hrdlicka said.
“It’s not only about investing in our operations but our people too. We are passionate about creating the best employee experience in Australian aviation and attracting around 2,000 people to our airline in just under two years is a testament to the priority we place on our team members.
“Despite the challenges faced by our industry, demand for travel remains strong and we’re responding with a focus on the long-term by increasing the efficiency and sustainability of our fleet with four additional Boeing MAX 8s joining our fleet from 2023.
“The future of Virgin Australia is bright and these announcements highlight our commitment to maintaining strong competition for Australians who want to travel and experience great value.”
To find out more, visit virginaustralia.com/au
