Virgin Atlantic Upper Class (Airbus)
Ground flow — Mumbai (BOM)
Chauffeur to Gate 1. The smoothest start at CSIA is the VIP entrance (Gate 1). Access requires a meet-and-assist. Three viable routes:
a trusted airport contact to walk you through,
a pre-booked skycaps/porter escort, or
Adani Pranaam for full meet-and-assist across formalities.
Proceed all the way across the hall to the Business/First security channel on the right side of departures, which moves quickly, then through the premium immigration counters.
Lounge. Head to the Adani West Lounge (business/first class passengers only). Inside, the Sohum Spa offers a complimentary 20-minute foot massage, buffet options are plentiful, and service is attentive without hovering.
Tip: when you take the elevator down to the lower concourse for the gates, look for the buggy tucked at the back to save the final walk.
Boarding
Priority with Group 1. The welcome is classic Virgin - personal touches being addressed by your name & pre-departure drinks appear without prompting.
The cabin & suite
On the A350-1000, Virgin’s Upper Class Suite is a clear step beyond the old herringbone “coffin” era. A 1-2-1 layout with sliding privacy doors and direct aisle access from every seat. The cabin looks fresh - calm lighting, uncluttered lines - only the footwell can slightly feel like a narrow cubby, so leg freedom could be better.
Where to sit:
Solo travellers: Window A/K
Couples: Centre D/G; the divider goes up when you want some private time.
The Loft
Instead of a full bar, the A350 features The Loft - a softly lit social nook mid-cabin. It’s ideal for a ten-minute stretch, a quiet top-up, and a conversation without disturbing a sleeping neighbour.
Service & dining
Crew choreography remains a Virgin strong suit—warm, quick, then invisible. Champagne refills arrive on cue; mains are well-seasoned and properly hot. Coffee is better than you expect at altitude. Trays clear promptly if you’re working.
Sleep & arrival
With the door slid slightly shut and bedding in place, the suite feels private and the A350’s low cabin noise helps. On arrival, priority bags do their job—first onto the belt—then it’s straight to a Wheely First chauffeur waiting with a placard, car staged for a clean exit. If you are a Wheely member, you can try their SUV service which is member only as of writing. For membership referrals, contact us.
Practical notes
Power & stowage: AC + USB C; keep bulk overhead, essentials in the lidded side cubby.
Amenity & bedding: Basic amenity kit compared to other airlines. Virgin needs to up their game there so carry own products. Bedding is plush and comfortable though.
Wi-Fi: Worked quite well. Able to send and receive WhatsApp pictures and videos
Verdict
Virgin’s A350 Upper Class delivers privacy with personality - a modern suite (with a door), no older herringbone style compromises, and service that reads the room.
