Virgin has purchased 15 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, with an option to add a further 28 aircraft, with the view to replacing its A340-300 fleet.

On initially ordering the aircraft Virgin founder Sir Richard Branson said, "The Dreamliner will bring a step change to the industry, substantially reducing environmental impact and incorporating innovative design and advanced technology, while providing an enhanced flying experience for our passengers."

Virgin expects delivery towards the end of 2014, and has announced that it will be fitting the Dreamliner in a three-class configuration, with the new Upper Class suite onboard.