The airline has just announced that it has cutting 3,150 positions, which is nearly a third of its 10,000 workforce.
The Company says that it is moving its flying programme from London Gatwick to Heathrow, and says it no longer plans to use all its 747-400S jets adding thatit will fly only wide-body, twin-engine aircraft from London Heathrow and Manchester to the most popular destinations
hai Weiss, Virgin Atlantic’s CEO, says the coronavirus crisis means it must cut costs,including reducing the number of staff.
“We have weathered many storms since our first flight 36 years ago, but none has been as devastating as Covid-19 and the associated loss of life and livelihood for so many.
“However, to safeguard our future and emerge a sustainably profitable business, now is the time for further action to reduce our costs, preserve cash and to protect as many jobs as possible. It is crucial that we return to profitability in 2021. This will mean taking steps to reshape and resize Virgin Atlantic in line with demand, while always keeping our people and customers at the heart of all we do.
He added:
“I wish it was not the case, but we will have to reduce the number of people we employ. The commitment of our people throughout this crisis has been nothing but amazing, and the embodiment of true Virgin spirit. As we have navigated the Covid-19 crisis, I have been humbled at every step by their solidarity. In times of adversity we must support each other so that ultimately, we can emerge a stronger and better Virgin Atlantic.
“After 9/11 and the Global Financial Crisis, we took similar painful measures but fortunately many members of our team were back flying with us within a couple of years. Depending on how long the pandemic lasts and the period of time our planes are grounded for, hopefully the same will happen this time.
