Virgin Atlantic's economy product has an average seat pitch of 31" - disappointing given the carrier's reputation, as some other airlines' long-haul cabins offer a good three inches more. Moreover, in common with some of its rivals, Virgin charges extra for the increased legroom exit seats in economy. These cost between £50 and £75 each way on most routes or £125 one way to Sydney.

However, a plus point is that everyone gets their own seatback TV with a choice of channels and on many flights each seat also comes with up to 35 video games. On many of the newly fitted aircraft, such as the B747s operating out of London Gatwick and Manchester, there is a fully-toucscreen entertainment system with over 300 hours of content to choose from. Travellers from the UK also receive a free amenity kit including eyeshades, socks, toothbrush and toothpaste.