Virgin Atlantic Sells Two 787-9s to LOT

Virgin Atlantic will transfer two of its Boeing 787-9 aircraft to LOT Polish Airlines in 2027. This sale reduces Virgin's 787-9 fleet from 17 to 14 jets, according to the carrier's 2024 fleet adjustment plan.

LOT's chief executive, Michał Fijoł, confirmed the 2027 completion date. The two aircraft will join LOT's existing fleet of eight 787-8s and seven 787-9s. The specific airframes involved in the transfer have not been disclosed by either airline.

Virgin Atlantic's Fleet Shift to Airbus

Virgin Atlantic's widebody fleet strategy now favors Airbus aircraft. By the first quarter of 2028, the airline will operate just 14 Boeing 787-9s. Seven of these will be on long-term lease extensions.

The airline's future widebody composition will be dominated by Airbus models. It plans to operate 12 Airbus A330neos and 12 A350-1000s. This gives Airbus a significant numerical advantage over Boeing in Virgin's fleet.

The two 787-9s sold to LOT will receive a cabin refurbishment. However, LOT states this will not be a full reconfiguration. Because the cabin layout will be close to Virgin Atlantic's current usage, LOT expects to avoid lengthy certification and engineering processes.

Premium Strategy with the A330neo

Virgin Atlantic indicates the Airbus A330neo will be central to its new focus on premium-heavy flying on popular transatlantic routes. The airline is targeting high-yield flights, such as those to New York City.

The A330neos will be configured with a strong premium cabin focus. They will have 44 Upper Class seats and 56 Premium seats on board.

The airline is introducing a unique product called The Retreat Suite on the A330neo. Each aircraft will have two of these exclusive suites. They feature a six-foot, seven-inch lie-flat bed and a 27-inch entertainment touchscreen.

An ottoman in each suite serves as an initial seat. The suite layout allows up to four people to dine in a private area. The aircraft also includes a social zone with four comfortable seats that can host eight people.

LOT's Fleet Expansion Strategy

LOT Polish Airlines has identified growing demand for long-haul capacity at its Warsaw Chopin Airport (WAW) hub. The carrier lacked the necessary aircraft to offer the additional services required to meet this demand.

The airline has capitalized on other carriers reducing their Dreamliner fleets. Acquiring midlife aircraft allows for quicker and lower-cost expansion compared to ordering new jets. This is seen as an important advantage given Boeing's reported difficulties in delivering jets to customers on time in recent years.

Alongside the two 787-9s from Virgin Atlantic, LOT is set to add further airframes from Thai Airways. These acquisitions will bring LOT's total long-haul fleet to nine aircraft.

According to data from Planespotters.net, LOT's total fleet consists of 94 aircraft. Only 15 of these are widebody aircraft. The airline is also expecting to temporarily acquire two Boeing 777 jets on a wet lease basis for the peak of the winter season.