Introduction of Inflight Mobile Phone Calling

In May 2012, we introduced a mobile phone service that allowed passengers on selected Virgin Atlantic flights to make and receive calls, send text messages and access mobile data while in the air. The service was launched on our Airbus A330-300 aircraft operating between London and New York, making us one of the first British airlines to offer mobile voice calling during commercial flights. Developed in partnership with AeroMobile, the technology connected passengers' mobile phones to an onboard cellular network, which used satellite communications to link with mobile networks on the ground. Passengers with compatible devices and participating mobile operators could use the service during designated stages of the flight, subject to regulatory restrictions. Calls were not permitted during take-off or landing, and the system was designed to manage the number of simultaneous voice calls to limit disruption in the cabin. The introduction gave passengers additional ways to stay in contact with colleagues, family and friends while travelling. It also reflected our continuing investment in onboard connectivity as mobile technology became an increasingly important part of everyday communication.