Virgin Australia: Business & Economy Class

Virgin Australia has shown it is making big changes to its business and economy class cabins across its Boeing 737 fleet to the tune of $110 million. The airline announced this after taking delivery of its first Boeing 737-8 aircraft into its Brisbane hangar on Saturday. Fresh from Boeing's Seattle factory, the new aircraft is one of 33 fuel-efficient Boeing 737-8 and 737-10 aircraft Virgin Australia has on order, with more fuel-efficient aircraft to be delivered in the coming months. It is part of its fleet renewal program as the airline continues to work to reduce its carbon emissions by 2050.Some of the important features of the new Boeing 737-8 cabin include power in all business and economy class seats and larger overhead lockers, with the capacity to store up to 50 percent more carry-on luggage. But this does not mean that carry-on baggage limits will increase, and the 7kg limit will remain for economic reasons. There will be wider seats in business class and also a new economy seat design, with a ribbed backrest "to elevate comfort and ergonomics" and a tablet/personal device holder for all economy seats.

Virgin Australia's economy class:

Seating & Amenities

Standard economy seats have pitch ranging from 28-31 inches with width of 17-18 inches

Seat assignments are not guaranteed and may be changed by airline 

Snacks, non-alcoholic drinks, beer, wine, and spirits available for purchase

Inflight entertainment system available with movies, TV shows and music

Carry-on & Checked Bags  

• Carry-on bag allowance: One piece up to 22 lbs (10kg) and measuring up to 56 x 36 x 23 cm 

• Checked bags: First bag allowed up to 33 lbs (15kg), fees range $25-$45 for second+ bags  

Flight Changes & Cancellations

• Date/flight changes allowed for a fee subject to fare rules and flight availability  

• Non-refundable tickets forfeit remaining value from unused flights

• Refunds for cancellations allowed in some cases for a fee minus cancellation penalty

Check-In

• Online check-in available 30 hours prior up to an hour before departure

• Printed boarding pass required for airport check-in  

Key economy class policies aim to provide basic amenities and services while lowering ticket cost, though with restrictions on changes, seating and luggage. Additional fees offset lower airfare. Travelers should review full terms during booking.

Here is an overview of some key policies for Virgin Australia's business class:

Seating and Amenities

• Lie-flat seats with pitch up to 82 inches long and width between 21-25 inches

• Premium cabin with dedicated check-in area and business class lounge access 

• Higher baggage allowance than economy 

• À la carte dining menu along with wine, champagne, and spirits

• Priority services including premium security access and boarding  

Flight Changes and Cancellations

• Same flight change and cancellation policies as economy

• Paid option to purchase increased fare flexibility

• Additional services and amenities non-refundable if unused  

Lounge Access

• Complimentary access to Virgin Australia domestic and international business lounges 

• Guest passes available for purchase 

• Features including free food and beverages, WiFi, work spaces 

Baggage Allowance  

• 2 x 32 kg checked bags + 1 x 7 kg hand baggage

• Extra allowances for Velocity Platinum/Gold members

• Carry-on limits still apply

Overall, Virgin Australia business class features lie-flat seating, premium dining and lounge access to provide an elevated travel experience over economy. Ticket flexibility and baggage policies are improved, generally with a higher fare cost.