Virgin Atlantic boosts India, Caribbean flights, drops Riyadh route

Virgin Atlantic is adjusting its Summer 2026 network, boosting capacity in key markets while cancelling its Riyadh route. 

Following a network review, the airline will expand in India, increasing flights to Bengaluru from seven to 13 per week starting June 1. 

The move strengthens connectivity for Canadian and U.S. travellers connecting via London Heathrow.

Services to Mumbai and Delhi will remain double-daily year-round, while capacity on the Mumbai route will grow by 30 per cent between March 28 and May 15 as the VS358/359 shifts to an A350 aircraft.

In the Caribbean, flights between Montego Bay and London Heathrow will increase from four per week to daily beginning June 1, as demand rebounds following Hurricane Melissa.

U.S. routes are also seeing adjustments. 

Las Vegas service will increase from seven to 10 weekly flights starting August 31, driven by strong fall demand. 

Meanwhile, Miami frequencies will drop from 14 to 11 per week between July 20 and September 6, and New York JFK service will be reduced by three weekly frequencies from June 1, bringing Virgin Atlantic’s schedule to six daily flights. 

Combined with Delta Air Lines, the joint venture will operate eight daily flights to JFK.

Amid ongoing uncertainty in the Middle East, Virgin Atlantic has cancelled its London Heathrow–Riyadh service.

“We have loved flying to Riyadh and are very sorry for the disappointment this change will cause. We know this route has been important to many of our customers, and we’re truly grateful for their support," said Dave Geer, chief commercial officer, Virgin Atlantic.

“As we look ahead to the summer season, we know many customers are actively planning their travel. We’re pleased to be offering increased flying between our three largest markets - the USA, Caribbean and India - to help meet this demand.

“Customers booked to travel to Riyadh will be contacted with their options, including rebooking onto an alternative carrier or receiving a refund. We remain committed to the region and will continue to offer connectivity to Saudi Arabia through our partnership with Saudia.”

The airline will continue serving Saudi Arabia via its codeshare partner Saudia, offering connections between London Heathrow, Riyadh and Jeddah, as well as Manchester to Jeddah, with onward service across the country. 

Flying Club members will still be able to earn and redeem points on these flights.

Virgin Atlantic said it continues to monitor the Middle East situation and will adjust its schedule based on regulatory guidance, demand and operating conditions.

Separately, the airline confirmed its seasonal Dubai service remains suspended through the end of Winter 2025, with a potential return planned for Winter 2026, subject to safety and demand.

The Summer 2026 season runs through October 24.

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