Virgin Atlantic to axe London-Shanghai route in October

Virgin Atlantic is ending its longstanding route between London and Shanghai due to increasing costs associated with the continued closure of Russian airspace to UK-based airlines.

The airline said it would operate its final flight from Heathrow to Shanghai on 25 October followed by the return service departing on 26 October.

In a statement to trade partners, Virgin Atlantic said: “After 25 years of proudly serving this Asian hub city, operations have become increasingly costly with the closure of Russian airspace for UK carriers.

“This has resulted in longer flight times, meaning additional aircraft time and fuel is required, all of which have contributed to increased costs for the business.”

Virgin has been flying to Shanghai since 1999, although services were suspended for more than two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The airline only restored the route in May 2023 after China reopened its borders to international travellers.

“Our people, customers and you, our partners, have been amazing since we first touched down at Shanghai in 1999, providing important connectivity between the UK and Shanghai for thousands of customers and supporting global supply chains through our cargo operations,” added the airline.

“We understand that this news may be disappointing for you and our mutual customers and we appreciate your patience and understanding during this time.”

Russian airspace has been closed to UK and EU airlines since the outbreak of war in Ukraine in early 2022. This has meant longer flights between Europe and Far East for European carriers.