Virgin Atlantic Flying Club Makes Redeeming Flights With Points Easier

Got some Virgin Points you don’t know what to do with? Well, you’ll now have more opportunities to use them.

U.K.-based long-haul carrier Virgin Atlantic has confirmed that a minimum of 12 award seats will be made available to redeem on all flights from June 29, 2022, and that Gold elite members will get priority access to seats.

Here’s what Virgin’s latest updates mean for you.

Virgin Atlantic Now Guarantees 12 Reward Seats per Flight

As Virgin’s reward availability gets released 331 days before departure, it will be from that date that a minimum of 12 seats will be opened up for booking.

Once these first guaranteed 12 seats are gone, it’s unclear as to whether more will get released.

The 12 seats will be split between Virgin’s 3 cabin classes with at least 8 in economy, 2 in premium economy, and 2 Upper (business class).

You’ll be pleased to know that there will also be no blackout dates, meaning the same amount of seats will be available during off-peak as well as peak travel times.

Bottom Line: If you plan your travel far enough in advance, you can set a reminder for the date that award availability will be released for your preferred Virgin Atlantic flight and relax knowing that there will be at least 12 seats open for you to choose from.

Last Reward Seats Reserved for Gold Elites

If you’re a Virgin Atlantic Gold elite, you’ll be pleased to know that you’ll now be able to book a new Gold Reward ticket.

The Gold Reward ticket gives Gold elites exclusive access to a reward seat in any cabin using Virgin Points.

As is often the case with the miles world, the perk comes with the following restrictions: 

• Gold Reward tickets must be booked more than 60 days in advance
• Double the regular amount of Virgin Points is needed for a Gold Reward
• Reservations using the Gold Reward must be made over the phone or via Virgin’s chat
• A maximum of 8 sectors (equivalent to 8 one-ways) can be booked per membership year
• Tickets cannot be changed but can be canceled for a fee of $50 (for flights from the U.S.) and $36.59 (for flights from the U.K.)

Hot Tip: Get inspired for your next trip with our guide on the best ways to redeem Virgin Points for maximum value.

Final Thoughts

Virgin Atlantic’s updated reward redemption policy means a guaranteed 12 seats will be available to book on all flights and Gold elites will have exclusive access to even more availability.

With Virgin’s expansive route network from the U.S. to the U.K., you could find yourself making the most of your Virgin Points very soon.