United Kingdom 
SkyTeam About Virgin Atlantic
Virgin Atlantic is a British airline with its headquarters in Crawley, United Kingdom. Founded by Richard Branson, it operates long-haul routes to destinations in North America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia. Headquartered in Crawley, United Kingdom. The airline is a member of SkyTeam.
Carry-on Baggage
Carry-on Bag
Personal Item
Checked Baggage Allowance
| Class | First Bag | Second Bag | Weight | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Economy Light | From £40 / $55 | From £60 / $75 | 51 pounds (23 kg) | 90 linear inches (229 cm) |
| Economy Classic/Delight | Free | From £60 / $75 | 51 pounds (23 kg) | 90 linear inches (229 cm) |
| Premium/Upper Class | Free | Free | 70 pounds (32 kg) | 90 linear inches (229 cm) |
Additional Bags & Notes
Light fare: Cabin baggage only
💡 Fees and allowances may vary by route, fare type, and booking date. Always verify on the official Virgin Atlantic baggage page before traveling.
Example Baggage Scenarios
Crawley → New York (Economy)
Carry-on: 23 x 14 x 9 inches (58 x 36 x 23 cm), 10 kg max
Checked bag: 1 piece 51 pounds (23 kg) — From £40 / $55
2nd bag: From £60 / $75
Tip: Prepay online to lower baggage costs before you arrive at the airport
Crawley → Dubai (Business Class)
Carry-on: 23 x 14 x 9 inches (58 x 36 x 23 cm), 10 kg max + personal item
Checked bags: 2 pieces 51 pounds (23 kg) — Included free
Priority: Business class bags tagged priority for faster delivery
Lounge: Complimentary lounge access with extra bag storage
⚠️ These are typical examples. Actual fees depend on fare type, route, booking date, and frequent flyer status.
Excess Baggage Fees
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Extra Bag / Per Kg | £65-90 flat fee per extra bag (varies by route) | Varies by route and booking time |
| Prepaid Discount | Save up to 40% when prepaying online | Book online before departure to save |
| Overweight (23-32kg) | £65-100 for bags 23-32kg | Per bag exceeding standard weight |
💰 Pro tip: Always prepay for extra baggage online. Airport fees can be 20-40% higher.
Tips to Avoid Extra Baggage Fees
- Weigh at home: Use a luggage scale before leaving. Most overweight fees start at $50-100 per bag.
- Prepay online: Book extra baggage through Virgin Atlantic's website to save 10-20% vs airport prices.
- Wear heavy items: Boots, coats, and heavy clothing don't count toward luggage weight.
- Use compression bags: Vacuum bags reduce clothing volume by up to 75%.
- Check credit card perks: Premium cards often include free checked bags on select airlines.
- Join Flying Club: Elite members often get free checked bags and priority boarding.
Special Items & Equipment
Virgin Atlantic accepts various special items with specific conditions. Advance booking is required for most special items. Contact the airline at least 48-72 hours before departure.
Important: All special items require advance reservation. Airport acceptance is not guaranteed without pre-booking. Fees shown are estimates — actual prices vary by route, season, and availability.
Sports equipment: Golf, ski, surf accepted
Pre-booking required 48-72h before departure.
Must be properly packed in protective bag/case
Musical instruments: Cabin or checked
Small instruments cabin-allowed if space permits.
Cellos/large instruments may require seat purchase
Virgin Red Points: Earn on flights
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Iconic cabin design and service
Contact airline for specific requirements.
Pre-booking recommended
Musical Instruments & Sports Equipment — Quick Reference
Musical Instruments
- Cabin: Guitars, violins if overhead space permits
- Extra seat: Cellos, French horns (€100-300)
- Checked: Hard case mandatory, max 32kg
- Booking: Contact airline 72h before flight
Sports Equipment
- Golf: €30-80/bag, max 15kg
- Ski/Snowboard: €40-100/set, max 23kg
- Bicycle: €60-150, must be boxed
- Surfboard: €75-200, depends on length
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