Virgin Atlantic vs Delta

While Delta is one of the world’s largest airlines, Virgin Atlantic maintains top quality services. Comparing the two airlines’ inflight services, networks, and reputations helps us see which airline is better.

Inflight services

Virgin Atlantic’s Economy boasts complimentary meals and drinks. There is also at-seat entertainment and Wi-Fi on select flights. Seats with additional legroom are available with Economy Delight fares. Delta’s Main Cabin has at-seat entertainment. Complimentary snacks or meals are served depending on the duration of the flight. On some North American flights, there is also a buy-on-board menu.

Virgin Atlantic’s award-winning Premium features economy class with added luxury. Roomy leather seating and amenity kits are some of the perks. Restaurant-quality meals are served while artisan snacks are available during the flight. Delta Premium Select is Delta’s newer premium economy service. Available on certain international flights, wider seating has additional recline. A premium meal service is served, plus passengers receive an amenity kit. On other flights, Delta Comfort+ has extra legroom, additional snacks, and an amenity kit on international flights.

Upper Class, Virgin Atlantic’s business class product, features leather seating that transform to lie-flat beds. Fine dining inspired meals are offered during the flight. A dedicated space to enjoy a drink or dine is also found onboard. Delta does not offer business class on its flights.

While Virgin Atlantic does not have a First class product, Delta has this service. Delta One is available on long-haul flights and some longer domestic routes. There is a dedicated cabin crew and luxurious amenities are provided. Flat-bed seats include a soft pillow and blanket. Chef-inspired menus boast seasonal dishes and regional ingredients. First Class is available on shorter flights. Spacious seats have 8 inches of extra legroom, while a snack or meal is served depending on the flight’s duration.

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Delta and Virgin’s network

Delta Air Lines operates flights to over 240 destinations in more than 50 countries. The airline connects cities in six continents. Delta is also a member of SkyTeam, which offers hundreds of additional destinations with partner airlines.

Virgin Atlantic’s route is much smaller with over 30 destinations in 16 countries. The carrier operates in four continents. Virgin Atlantic codeshares flights with Delta, providing passengers with additional international routes.

Industry reputation

Virgin Atlantic is certified as a 4-Star Airline by Skytrax, a leading authority in reviewing airlines. This means travellers can expect a high and consistent standard of service and product. Delta is certified as a 3-Star Airline, which means an average level of service and product quality. While Delta is among the best airlines in the United States, Virgin Atlantic has a stronger global reputation.

In its 2019 World Airline Awards, Skytrax recognised Virgin Atlantic with the World’s Best Premium Economy Class and World’s Best Premium Class Seat awards. It also received the award for the Best Business Class Lounge in Europe. Delta was noted for the Best Airline Staff in North America and Best Cabin Crew in the United States. Delta Air Lines was also named Best North American Airline in the 2020 Business Traveller Awards, while Virgin Atlantic received the Best Premium Economy Class award.

Delta or Virgin Atlantic – The verdict

While Delta operates a more extensive route network, Virgin Atlantic offers travellers a superior product. Its services are consistently ranked high and the airline has been recognised in the industry.