Virgin Atlantic to offer flights from Edinburgh Airport to Caribbean for the first time

The airline will run two return flights per week between Edinburgh and Barbados from 5 December 2021, which will be Scotland’s only direct services to the Caribbean.

From April 2022, Virgin Atlantic will then connect Edinburgh with the US city of Orlando, Florida.

The firm last operated flights from Edinburgh between 2013 and 2015, connecting with Heathrow under its Little Red brand.

‘A premier city like Edinburgh deserves premier airlines’

Virgin Atlantic chief commercial officer, Juha Jarvinen, said: “The Caribbean is such an important destination for us and for our customers and we couldn’t be more excited to announce our new routes, as we continue to grow our ever-expanding portfolio.

“We know customers are keen to get away on their next adventure after a challenging year and these Caribbean destinations offer the perfect escape for those travellers looking to either simply relax or explore a new corner of the world.”

Mr Jarvinen added that the airline is “thrilled” to be able to offer additional routes to the Caribbean from both Edinburgh and Manchester.

“Commencing international flights from Edinburgh marks an exciting new chapter and I know our teams can’t wait to show Edinburgh the famous Virgin Atlantic spirit and flair,” he said.

Edinburgh Airport boss Gordon Dewar said: “A premier city like Edinburgh deserves premier airlines and we are extremely excited to welcome our newest partner Virgin Atlantic to Scotland’s capital city.

“To be able to deliver flights to Barbados, Scotland’s only direct route to the Caribbean, and Orlando is a fantastic boost to us as we prepare for the post-Covid recovery, and it is a huge show of confidence in Edinburgh Airport’s ability to deliver for passengers across the country.

“We look forward to the new routes launching and watching passengers head off on the holiday of a lifetime from Edinburgh Airport with Virgin Atlantic.”