Virgin Atlantic Upper Class A330-900neo Flight Review
Overview
- Aircraft: Virgin Atlantic A330-900neo
- Cabin: Upper Class (Business Class)
- Special Feature: Retreat Suite (4-person pod)
- Route: London Heathrow (LHR) to Boston (BOS)
- Cost: 116,000 Virgin points + £2,000 for 4 tickets
- Retreat Suite Upgrade: £300 per seat (available 14 days before departure)
Ground Experience
Check-In
- Location: Virgin Atlantic Upper Class Wing, Heathrow Terminal 3
- Access: Dedicated drop-off for Upper Class passengers, Delta One passengers, and Virgin Atlantic Gold cardholders
- Service: Dedicated counters with personalized service, no queues
- Security: Private security screening with dedicated staff
Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse Lounge
Dining Options
- Extensive breakfast selection
- Full-service bar with cocktails, wine, and spirits
- QR code ordering system (dine anywhere in lounge)
- Self-service deli area with croissants, cookies, fresh fish, yogurts
Amenities
- Proper shower facilities for pre-flight refresh
- Outdoor terrace with sunbeds and seating (weather permitting)
- Wellness-focused design
- Multiple seating areas
Aircraft & Cabin
Cabin Layout
- Configuration: 1-2-1 seating
- Retreat Suite: Two middle seats at front of aircraft
- Booking: Opens 14 days before departure for additional fee
Seat Features (Standard Upper Class)
- Screen Size: 17 inches
- Bed: Fully lie-flat
- Privacy: Sliding door
- Storage: Multiple compartments including large bin for backpacks
- Charging: Wireless charging, universal power port, USB-C, USB-A
- Connectivity: Bluetooth audio
- Windows: Dual windows at window seats
- Table: Click-out tray with adjustable positions
Retreat Suite Enhancements
- Screen Size: 27 inches (10 inches larger than standard seats)
- Bed Length: 6'7" (2 inches longer than standard)
- Ottoman Seating: Allows companions to sit together
- Space: Significantly larger footwell and overall area
Design & Atmosphere
- Purple and beige color scheme
- Pink-purple mood lighting
- Excellent privacy even before closing door
Amenities
Provided Items
- Large fluffy pillow (firm yet soft)
- Recyclable paper "goodie bag" containing:
- Sleeping mask
- Socks
- Toothpaste and brush
- Earplugs
- Day cream
- Hand cream
- Lip balm
- Headphones
- Water bottle
- Vanity mirrors (multiple locations)
Dining Experience
Service Style
- Three-course meal service
- Ability to dine together in Retreat Suite with table setup
- Full menu available
Food Quality
Mixed Reviews:
- Cod Main Course: Average presentation, taste acceptable but not exceptional, "wouldn't feel out of place in economy metal tray"
- Tortellini: Highly recommended, beautifully presented, very delicious
- Sticky Toffee Pudding: Unanimously loved, "absolutely superb"
Overall: Good quality but main courses lacked excitement in presentation and taste
Social Spaces
The Loft
- Social area on A330-900neo
- Features:
- Seating to stretch out
- Mini fridge with snacks and drinks
- Two large TVs
- Relaxation space for groups
In-Flight Entertainment & Activities
Entertainment Options
- Large IFE screens (17" standard, 27" Retreat Suite)
- IFE remote control
- Bluetooth connectivity
Social Activities (Retreat Suite)
- Group dining
- Card games (blackjack)
- Spa/pampering sessions (eye gel patches, face masks)
- Manicures
- Eyebrow tweezing
Sleep Experience
Bed Quality
- Fully lie-flat
- Excellent width (possibly widest footwell experienced)
- Super deep footwell (feet don't touch end)
- Good balance between firm and soft
- Extra length in Retreat Suite (6'7")
- High comfort level for overnight flights
Comparison Notes
- Retreat Suite compared to Qatar Airways QSuite (considered best business class product)
- Feels like first-class product despite being business class
Final Verdict
Highlights
✅ Seamless check-in with celebrity treatment ✅ Exceptional lounge with impeccable staff and food ✅ Welcoming purple mood lighting ✅ Super comfortable seats with tons of space and privacy ✅ Wide, comfortable beds perfect for sleep ✅ Unique social dining and entertainment experience ✅ Excellent value at 116,000 points + £2,000 for 4 people ✅ Outstanding sticky toffee pudding
Areas for Improvement
❌ Main course presentation and taste (especially cod)
Overall Rating
Excellent experience - All four travelers would fly again, with only minor food criticism. The Retreat Suite offers a truly unique social flying experience unmatched by other business class products.