Virgin Australia expands Boeing 737 MAX 8 fleet

The Virgin Australia Group is expanding its 737 MAX fleet with four additional MAX 8s to join the firm to cope with increased demand. First delivery of the additional Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft is expected in 2023.

Virgin Australia Group CEO Jayne Hrdlicka said “Despite the challenges faced by our industry, demand for travel remains strong and we’re responding with a focus on the long-term by increasing the efficiency and sustainability of our fleet with four additional Boeing MAX 8s joining our fleet from 2023.

The airline has also arranged as part of a long-term partnership with global aviation training provider CAE.for priority access to a Boeing 737NG full-flight simulator that will be deployed in Jandakot, near Perth.

Hrdlicka said: “I’m also thrilled today to announce a long-term partnership with world-class aviation training provider CAE, who will deploy a 737NG full-flight simulator for Virgin Australia at their training centre in Jandakot, near Perth.  Demand for 737NG simulator training is at extraordinary levels globally and securing this capacity at home is an enormous benefit to both Virgin Australia, and our pilots undergoing training.

“Today is a great day for our pilots and for Perth. The continued focus on investment in people, aircraft and infrastructure is important to our business and the added activity in Perth will be great for many of our existing partners in Western Australia. 

“This means our Western Australian pilots will have the opportunity to be trained at their home base, saving them travel time to and from the East Coast or further, while providing significant cost savings to the business and driving efficiency in our training program.

“This is the first time we will have a simulator outside of Queensland or Victoria, and while Virgin Australia’s home will always be in the Sunshine State, it demonstrates the growth and importance of our business in Western Australia and of the state to Virgin Australia.”

Air Models have a range of aircraft models, including some special 737 MAX models, including this one in the colours of flydubai.  

Other airlines featured include Air China,  Xiamen Air and China Southern 

In another move forward, Virgin Australia has also announced that Brisbane and Melbourne airports will now feature fast track security facilities for eligible Virgin Australia customers, with the airline re-opening Premium Entry in Brisbane and a Priority Screening lane at Melbourne Airport.

The premium security experience, reserved for Velocity Frequent Flyer Platinum, Gold and Beyond members, Virgin Australia Business Class guests, and eligible high tier guests of the airline’s renowned international airline partners, will open between 5.00am and 10.00am weekdays, allowing guests to swiftly move through both airports.