The new Boeing 737-8 aircraft for Virgin Australia offers an enhanced experience for customers, with its quieter engines and next-generation seats featuring device holders and in-seat power.
Virgin Australia enters a new era as it takes delivery of the first aircraft in its fleet of the latest Boeing 737 MAX family. The aircraft was flown by a specialist Virgin Australia flight crew from Seattle, Washington, to its hometown of Brisbane, marking a significant milestone for the airline. The newly introduced 737-8 aircraft offers an enhanced experience for customers, with its quieter engines and next-generation seats featuring convenient device holders and in-seat power. Moreover, it boasts impressive fuel efficiency, consuming at least 15% less fuel per flight compared to the 737-800 NG fleet.
Virgin Australia’s fleet renewal program, combined with other fuel efficiency initiatives, is expected to contribute to over 80% of the airline’s interim target to reduce its carbon emission intensity by 22% by 2030. The introduction of these new aircraft underscores Virgin Australia’s dedication to embracing environmentally friendly practices and reducing its carbon footprint.
Over the next five years, Virgin Australia plans to add a total of 33 new aircraft to its fleet, complementing its existing simplified 737 fleet. With one of the youngest commercial fleets in Australia, the airline is focused on modernizing its operations and providing a more sustainable travel experience for passengers.
Stuart Aggs, Chief Operations Officer,Virgin Australia, said, “While our approach to decarbonization is multi-faceted, fleet modernization is a critical part of progressing our sustainability ambitions and represents a significant opportunity to reduce our emissions intensity in the near-term. We expect our fleet renewal program, combined with other fuel efficiency initiatives, to support over 80 per cent of our 2030 interim target to reduce Virgin Australia’s carbon emission intensity by 22 per cent.”
The inaugural aircraft in the new fleet has been named “Monkey Mia,” following Virgin Australia’s tradition of naming its aircraft after Australian bodies of water. This particular aircraft will operate the airline’s recently launched Cairns to Haneda route, further expanding its network and connecting travelers to new destinations.
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The introduction of the Boeing 737 MAX family into Virgin Australia’s fleet marks a significant step forward in the airline’s sustainability journey. By investing in modern, fuel-efficient aircraft, Virgin Australia is proactively working towards reducing its environmental impact and achieving its long-term sustainability goals. With its ongoing commitment to innovation and responsible practices, Virgin Australia is set to pave the way for a greener and more efficient aviation industry.
