VA MAX8 Arrivals

[Greg Hyde]

Stirling D

rzjets reporting the first max to be msn 65045 ln 8604

Radi K

Can confirm VH-8IA will be sn 65045

[Dennis McLean]

It is showing in final assembly

[Yusef D]

Have pic of the winglets in the Renton factory waiting to be nailed to the first Max 8. Can't post.

[Anthony Collins]

This is obviously a big deal for Virgin, any chance of a special livery or an updated logo? Or same, same....

[MarkR]

This is obviously a big deal for Virgin, any chance of a special livery or an updated logo? Or same, same....

I think the fact the winglets are embargoed suggests a change….

[Stirling D]

8IA spotted in primer.
https://aviation.flights/boe/737/65045

[MarkR]

Looks like the only change is the virgin branding on the inside of the winglet, be interesting to see if the latest issues delay delivery.

[lloyd fox]

But Mark we haven't seen the rest of the aircraft as yet.

[Greg Hyde]

Closeup of Winglets

https://twitter.com/bfi_watch_ca350/status/1647099790306725888/photo/1

If you are starved for info.

[Radi K]

There are major max production delays at the minute that might affect this delivery due to a defect in the stabilizer.

[Radi K]

The 8 B737-8 aircraft for Virgin will be as follows.

VH-8IA, MSN-65045, LN-8604
VH-8IB, MSN-65047, LN-8724
VH-8IC, MSN-66635, LN-8747
VH-8ID, MSN-66638, LN-8863
VH-8IE, MSN-66644, LN-8882
VH-8IF, MSN-66647, LN-8919
VH-8IG, MSN-66648, LN-8905
VH-8IH, MSN-66650, LN-8944

The 8 for MAX-8, the I for International Config & A-Z being the sequential identification.

The aircraft will be configured as 8 Business Class, 30 Economy X, 138 Economy = 176 seats total.

[Stirling D]

8IA has rolled out in the current va liv, named 'Monkey Mia'
https://twitter.com/bfi_watch_ca350/status/1655602569593634816/photo/1

[Tristan S]

They've also 'tentatively' increased their MAX schedule

Adelaide – Denpasar eff 31MAR24
Brisbane – Apia eff 01APR24
Brisbane – Denpasar eff 31MAR24
Brisbane – Melbourne eff 31MAR24
Brisbane – Nadi eff 31MAR24
Melbourne – Adelaide eff 31MAR24
Melbourne – Denpasar eff 31MAR24
Melbourne – Hobart eff 31MAR24
Sydney – Apia eff 02APR24

https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230508-vans247m8

[Yusef D]

Virgin acknowledging further delays to Max 8 deliveries, Haneda to launch with 737-700.

http://https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/virgin-australia-boeing-737-max-delivery-delay[/URL]

VBY is in AUH getting updates to make this possible, presumably VBZ following soon after.

The ex KLM 700s can't be upgraded to the required standard.

[Michael Mak]

What update works are required to enable the two -700s to fly to HND?

[Yusef D]

What update works are required to enable the two -700s to fly to HND?


Satcom (data and voice), second HF radio, ACARS, possibly CPDLC.

[Michael Mak]

Satcom (data and voice), second HF radio, ACARS, possibly CPDLC.

Thanks! :)

[Radi K]

They would have to change AOCs as well I would think to VAI?

[MarkR]

There are only two in the VA stable, VA and VARA that are active, with the Tiger AOC retained for future use.

[Greg Hyde]

8IA

Aircraft manufacturer: THE BOEING COMPANY
Aircraft model: 737-8
Registration holder:
ZF FRANCE AIRCRAFT 1
c/o 32/F Far East Finance Centre, 16 Harcourt Rd
ADMIRALTY HONG KONG Hong Kong
Registered operator:
VIRGIN AUSTRALIA INTERNATIONAL AIRLINES PTY LTD
PO Box 1034
SPRING HILL Qld 4004
Australia
Serial: 65045
Registration type: Full Registration
Date first registered: 8 May 2023
Registration holder commencement date: 8 May 2023
Registered operator commencement date: 8 May 2023
Country of manufacture: United States of America
Year of manufacture: 2023
Maximum takeoff weight: 81374.00
Engine manufacturer: CFM INTERNATIONAL, S.A.
Engine type: Turbofan
Number of engines: 2
Engine model: LEAP-1B25
Airframe:Power Driven Aeroplane
Propellor model: NOT APPLICABLE
Propellor manufacturer: AIRCRAFT NOT FITTED WITH PROPELLER
Fuel type: Kerosene

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IA had her first flight of 2:22 on 22/05/23 as BOE604

[MarkR]

VH-8IA had her first flight of 2:22 on 22/05/23 as BOE604

Yep https://twitter.com/thegreatplanes/status/1660810273270423553

[Radi K]

There are only two in the VA stable, VA and VARA that are active, with the Tiger AOC retained for future use.

I don't think that's right.
https://www.casa.gov.au/search-centre/air-operators?search_api_fulltext=VIRGIN&field_tx_suburb_town_city=&field_dt_expiry%5Bmin%5D=&field_dt_expiry%5Bmax%5D=&field_dt_expiry_aoc%5Bmin%5D=&field_dt_expiry_aoc%5Bmax%5D=&sort_by=title&sort_order=ASC

VBY and VBZ now on VAI AOC

[James Smith]

VH-8IA had another flight yesterday (8/6/23) of 1:38 duration BFI-MWH, again as BOE604. It is scheduled to return to BFI in approximately 3 hours.

[Tristan S]

https://australianaviation.com.au/2023/06/virgin-will-have-its-first-737-max-8-by-months-end/

AA reporting that VA will get 8IA by the EOM

[Rowan McKeever]

VBZ departed AUH on Tuesday local time and arrived back in BNE this morning. Both two-class -700s now back in the country ready for HND to start.

I note, unless it's changed, one of the BNE-CNS rotations (arrive CNS ~1100hrs) is scheduled for VBY/Z while the -700s are on HND. Presumably to keep the 'spare' close by in case it's needed for the HND run.

[Greg Hyde]

8IA had another test flight yesterday.

[lloyd fox]

VBZ departed AUH on Tuesday local time and arrived back in BNE this morning. Both two-class -700s now back in the country ready for HND to start.

I note, unless it's changed, one of the BNE-CNS rotations (arrive CNS ~1100hrs) is scheduled for VBY/Z while the -700s are on HND. Presumably to keep the 'spare' close by in case it's needed for the HND run.

Hi Rowan i have noticed from flight schedules that from 11 Sep the 2nd MAX 8 does BNE-CNS AT 0610 AM as VA771 and returning at 1130 am as VA776 from CNS Daily .It then does BNE-PER-BNE daily at 1225 as VA466 returning to BNE as VA471 at 2335 hrs.

The next MAX 8 does BNE-SYD-PER-SYD-BNE from 9 Oct.:)

[Greg Hyde]

8IA had another test flight yesterday as BOE604.

May of been a CAP prior to delivery

[Dylan Hardie]

Due into Brisbane Thursday at 3:55pm VA9947 BFI-KOA-NAN-

[Rowan McKeever]

Hi Rowan i have noticed from flight schedules that from 11 Sep the 2nd MAX 8 does BNE-CNS AT 0610 AM as VA771 and returning at 1130 am as VA776 from CNS Daily .It then does BNE-PER-BNE daily at 1225 as VA466 returning to BNE as VA471 at 2335 hrs.

The next MAX 8 does BNE-SYD-PER-SYD-BNE from 9 Oct.:)

Cheers Lloyd, I've been waiting to see those changes (or something similar) show up in the res system. Good to know they're there now :)

[Tristan S]

ET are reporting 8IA will arrive tomorrow (28th)
https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/virgin-australia-first-boeing-737-max-delivery

[Stirling D]

ET are reporting 8IA will arrive tomorrow (28th)
https://www.executivetraveller.com/news/virgin-australia-first-boeing-737-max-delivery

Must be flying at warp speed lol.
VA's flight status has it at 3:55PM Thursday, 29 June 2023

[Tristan S]

Must be flying at warp speed lol.
VA's flight status has it at 3:55PM Thursday, 29 June 2023

Arg.. yeah .. normally its AA with this sort of inaccurate articles :rolleyes:

[James Smith]

ET is no longer saying that 8IA is arriving tomorrow or 28th June. The first sentence says, Virgin Australia’s first Boeing 737 MAX is expected to arrive this week... They must have changed it after first publishing the article.

[Dylan Hardie]

Was due to leave early hours of this morning Australia time as VA9947 but looks to keep getting pushed back

[Dennis McLean]

Now estimated departure from BFI at 19.14 on 27th around 12.14pm today our time

[Stirling D]

Cancelled for today, retimed for a 1555 arrival on Friday into BNE.
Departing BFI at 1000L on the 28th.

[Greg Hyde]

Looks like a whole bunch of expectant fathers in a maternity ward.

[James Smith]

Based on the times in the schedule showing on Flightradar24 I've converted them to the equivalent Australian EST times with dates for the delivery flight of VH-8IA. This is to make it easier for me to follow its progress. I hope that it is of assistance to you as well.

It deps BFI 3:00 29/6; arr KOA 9:25 (6:25 stage length) and overnights. Deps KOA 3:30 30/6; arr NAN 10:10 (6:40); deps NAN 11:00; arr BNE 15:55 (4:55).

Not ideal times to watch its departure from either BFI or KOA and obviously there could be last minute changes to these times and dates etc.

[Radi K]

Scheduled to enter service on 9-July

[Radi K]

Picture Attached.

[James Smith]

VH-8IA is on the first leg of its delivery flight and is due to arrive at KOA at approximately 10:00 EST time.

[Dennis McLean]

No Schedule is showing for KOA/NAN, but NAN/BNE on Friday is on FR24, 13.00/15.55.

[Stirling D]

VA website has it operating KOA-BNE direct. Arriving into BNE at 1330 tomorrow.

[MarkR]

VA website has it operating KOA-BNE direct. Arriving into BNE at 1330 tomorrow.

Flightaware confirms KOA direct Brisbane, the good weather probably helping with the lack of an alternate or holding fuel required.

[Tristan S]

For anyone interested, there is a livestream of the arrival into BNE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K3Aa_DMHqxI

[lloyd fox]

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/53012075804/in/dateposted-public/

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/53012395008/in/dateposted-public/

VH-8IA at BNE.:)

[Tristan S]

The next 7 Regos and Line Numbers have appeared on PlaneSpotters.net
VH-8IB through H, MSN 65047, 66635/38/44/47/48/50

[Greg Hyde]

The next 7 Regos and Line Numbers have appeared on PlaneSpotters.net
VH-8IB through H, MSN 65047, 66635/38/44/47/48/50

Also posted by Radi K earlier in this thread

[Stirling D]

For anyone chasing 8IA, first few sectors are loaded in the system.
10-Jul VA308 BNE MEL 6:55 9:20
10-Jul VA833 MEL SYD 10:00 11:25
10-Jul VA943 SYD BNE 13:00 14:30

11-Jul VA908 BNE SYD 6:05 7:40
11-Jul VA820 SYD MEL 8:30 10:05
11-Jul VA323 MEL BNE 11:10 13:20

[Greg Hyde]

VA had an open day (for staff) in Brisbane today to show off the new Max

[C Patters]

When does the next VA Max 8 arrive?

[James Smith]

According to Lloyd's post #28 of this thread, Virgin has scheduled into service the second Max from 11 September and the third Max from 9 October. Always subject to change of course.

Hopefully, one of Virgin's Max fuselages didn't end up in a Montana river or is affected by the closure of the rail line that is used to transport them to Boeing for assembly.

[Tristan S]

8IA has entered revenue service, just flying over my place on route to MEL as VA308

[James Smith]

Interesting that in the last two Virgin Australia newsroom media releases there is no mention of a 737 Max. It is referred to as a 737-8, with the rest of the 737s as either 737-800 or 737-800NG.

Is Ms Hrdlicka not willing to call it a 737 Max? Should we change the name of this thread?

[Radi K]

Is Ms Hrdlicka not willing to call it a 737 Max? Should we change the name of this thread?

It's 100% being branded as a 737-8 by Virgin - https://www.virginaustralia.com/au/en/travel-info/flying-with-us/our-fleet/

it's even written on the aircraft - https://imgur.com/a/jp4hoqE

[MarkR]

Boeing have slowing been dropping the Max tag since 2020, 737-8 is after all the offical designation

[Kent Broadhead]

Boeing have slowing been dropping the Max tag since 2020, 737-8 is after all the offical designation

In the MAX series. I'm not sure how this is "dropping the Max tag"? https://www.boeing.com/commercial/737max/

[Greg Hyde]

Ryan Air simply renamed the type to a "200" series.

[Brenden S]

Ryan Air is 737-8200 or something.

[Kent Broadhead]

Ryan Air is 737-8200 or something.

Yes, they were one of the first airlines who restarted flying and used that designation. I think they now argue it's a designation denoting the built-in airstairs.

But they are all a 737MAX according to Boeing.

[Yusef D]

Not the airstairs but the two extra floor-level exits. These exits are standard on Max 9 and Max 10 and give the Max 8 a legal capacity of 200. Ryanair fit 199 seats because 200 pax would require an extra flight attendant.

[MarkR]

In the MAX series. I'm not sure how this is "dropping the Max tag"? https://www.boeing.com/commercial/737max/

Been happening since 2020 as far as models go, not range family

[Greg Hyde]

The next 2 VA Maxs have spotted at Renton yesterday

VH-8IB (65047) in full paint (photo from rear, no name visible)
VH-8IC (66635) in primer

[Tristan S]

8IB has been added to the VH-reg

[Greg Hyde]

8IB has been added to the VH-reg

on 03/08/23

[Mayer F]

The next 2 VA Maxs have spotted at Renton yesterday

VH-8IB (65047) in full paint (photo from rear, no name visible)
Hi Greg. VH-8IB will be called "Bronte Beach" according to:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/148006280@N03/53113622122/

[Greg Hyde]

Hi Greg. VH-8IB will be called "Bronte Beach" according to:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/148006280@N03/53113622122/

Thanks,

[MarkR]

Interestingly CALC sold their entire fleet (64) of max to a middle eastern leasing company overnight, who will now have VA as a customer

[Greg Hyde]

VA 3rd max VH-8IC/66635 was added to the VH-Reg yesterday (23/08)

[Dennis McLean]

From what I can find out both 8lB and C are on the flight line, pre flight Prep, at Renton

[Yusef D]

8IB has been caught up in Boeing/Spirit Aerospace's latest snafu with rivet holes in the rear pressure bulkhead. It won't arrive until at least November.

8IC expected mid September.

VA scrambling to find wet leasing from Alliance/Airnorth.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IC was spotted in Renton in full faint and named "Kirra Beach"

(Thanks to hi-def image & a lot of zooming)

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IB reportedly had its first flight yesterday as BOE724, can't confirm

[Stirling D]

VH-8IB reportedly had its first flight yesterday as BOE724, can't confirm

Yup https://www.flightaware.com/live/flight/BOE724/history/20230904/2029Z

[Radi K]

Some more snaps of 8IB and 8IC
https://aviation.flights/boe/customer/VOZ-281

[Stirling D]

VAs next max VH-8IC is due into BNE on delivery next Sunday at 1550 from KOA, VA9947.

[Dennis McLean]

Just a comment Stirling, 8IB has done 3 test flights already but it appears that 8IC has not done any yet??

[Greg Hyde]

Just a comment Stirling, 8IB has done 3 test flights already but it appears that 8IC has not done any yet??

8IB flight on 04/09/23 is actually classed as a first flight.
As far as I'm aware it hasn't had a customer acceptance flight as yet.

8IC is yet to fly.

[James Smith]

8IC is currently operating its first flight RNT-BFI as BOE847.

[James Smith]

ADS-B Exchange is showing 8IC currently operating its second flight BFI-BFI. It is showing on Flightaware as BOE8IC not BOE847.

[Greg Hyde]

ADS-B Exchange is showing 8IC currently operating its second flight BFI-BFI. It is showing on Flightaware as BOE8IC not BOE847.

Flight only lasted 00:51 so my guess would be a second test flight rather than a CAF

[James Smith]

8IB had its second flight (one hour) and 8IC its third flight, being the customer acceptance flight (2 hours 59 minutes) on 21/9/23. Both flights were BFI-BFI.

[Michael Mak]

FR24 is currently showing VH-8IC is due to be delivered on September 25th, the first leg of the delivery flight is BFI-KOA with the flight number VA9947.

[James Smith]

8IC is currently flying this leg with 3 and a half hours to go to KOA.

[James Smith]

8IC is currently flying KOA-BNE and is scheduled to arrive in BNE at 12:46 today, according to Flightaware.

[lloyd fox]

VH-8IC FINALS for 01L

https://www.flickr.com/photos/79487691@N07/53215724577/in/dateposted-public/

[Rowan McKeever]

VH-8IC appears to be scheduled for EIS tomorrow (Saturday 30 Sep) with VA771/776 BNE-CNS return. Will then operate returns to PER tomorrow and Sunday.

https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/vh-8ic

VA online booking system concurs.

[Dennis McLean]

VH-8IA is scheduled CNS/BNE 09.30/11.09 so, it is not showing yet, but 8IC should be heading to HND today.

[MarkR]

Virgin noted the new deliveries in their profit update today:

7 to be delivered during FY24. A further 25 Boeing 737-10 aircraft planned for delivery from FY25

[Yusef D]

Those -10s may be planned for FY25 but the chances of them turning up then is remote.

They held the report back. Now there are only 6 -8s to come. 8IB in November. Maybe.

[MarkR]

Those -10s may be planned for FY25 but the chances of them turning up then is remote.

They held the report back. Now there are only 6 -8s to come. 8IB in November. Maybe.
Seven quoted includes one already delivered.

[James Smith]

B38M, VH-8IB flew its third flight of one hour and four minutes BFI-BFI yesterday, 30/10/23.

[James Smith]

B38M, VH-8IB has flown its customer acceptance flight, being its fourth flight of two hours 41 minutes BFI-MWH-BFI yesterday, 5/11/23. Delivery flight is next.

[Stirling D]

B38M, VH-8IB has flown its customer acceptance flight, being its fourth flight of two hours 40 minutes BFI-BFI yesterday, 5/11/23. Delivery flight is next.

VA website shows VA9946 - BFI-MLB on the 9th.

[James Smith]

VA website shows VA9946 - BFI-MLB on the 9th.

Stirling, where does this flight on the Virgin website?

[Stirling D]

Stirling, where does this flight on the Virgin website?

VA flight status, and plug in the flight number and date.

[James Smith]

Thanks very much, Stirling. A great tip.

[James Smith]

Just following up on the Virgin website flight status details. It is using MLB which is Melbourne, Orlando in the US, with a departure time of 11:00 on 9/11/23 from BFI with an arrival time of 19:20 on the same day. With the 3 hour time difference 5 hour 20 minutes would be around the right flight time to Orlando, Florida.

Maybe, this is a Virgin entry glitch on their website but does anyone know why 8IB would possibly be going to MLB and not MEL?

[Rowan McKeever]

I've just finished doing the same maths and was going to ask the same question, thanks James!

[Yusef D]

My guess would be IFC installation:

http://https://www.stsaviationgroup.com/sts-aviation-group-launches-sts-mod-center/

[Dennis McLean]

I have just looked at the Boeing test flights and Flight Aware, VH-8IB, flying as BOE724, did BFI/MWH/BFI on 5 Nov. That is the last flight showing.

[James Smith]

8IB looks to be flying to MLB, Florida tomorrow 9/11/23 at 11:00am local west coast US time as VA9946. This time should be plus a day and minus 6 hours or 5am Friday 10/11/23 SYD daylight saving time or 4:00am for BNE. See my post #100, Dennis. Source the Virgin website, flight status details.

[James Smith]

VH-8IB, B38M as VA9946 is nearly halfway through its five hour flight to MLB, Florida for what looks to be some technical work there.

[Stuart McCarthy]

Sorry wrong thread

[James Smith]

VH-8IB, B38M as VA9947 is currently nearly halfway between ONT-OGG (Kahului) after flying MLB-ONT earlier Wednesday, US time. She was in MLB from 9-22/11/23.

Virgin Flight Status has the flight continuing our way Thursday morning, US time to NOU which could be a planned refueling stop that may not be needed as the fuel burn is monitored on this sector. The next scheduled sector is NOU-BNE with a scheduled arrival time of 15:50 Friday afternoon. The other two Max deliveries operated nonstop from Hawaii to Brisbane which could also happen with 8IB.

[James Smith]

VH-8IB, is currently flying OGG-BNE with a scheduled arrival time of 13:12 AEST according to Flightaware. The NOU fuel stop looks as though it is not needed.

[MarkR]

Six additional fuel-efficient MAX-8 aircraft to enter the Virgin Australia fleet, bringing MAX-8 order to 14 and total planned latest generation aircraft to 39.
Third MAX-8 arrives in Brisbane from the US today, remaining 11 MAX-8s expected next year with one new aircraft delivered almost every month in 2024.
New MAX-8s to enter domestic and short-haul international routes including Fiji, Bali and Samoa.
DOWNLOAD VIDEO NEWS RELEASE

24 November 2023: Virgin Australia has increased its pipeline of new Boeing MAX family aircraft, with six more MAX-8s scheduled for delivery in the second half of 2024, bringing the airline’s total number of MAX-8s to 14 and total planned latest generation aircraft to 39.

The newest addition to the fleet, ‘Bronte Beach’ will arrive in the airline’s home city of Brisbane this afternoon from the US.

The 11 remaining MAX-8 aircraft are expected to arrive throughout 2024, equating to the delivery of one new aircraft almost every month next year. These new aircraft enable both significant growth and improved fuel efficiency.

New MAX-8 aircraft will reduce emissions by at least 15 per cent per flight compared to older generation 737’s, supporting the airline’s 2030 ambition of reducing carbon emissions intensity by 22 per cent and commitment to targeting net zero emissions by 2050. The MAX-8 aircraft also feature new generation interiors and are 40 per cent quieter than existing 737s.

The existing order of 25 x MAX-10s, with an expected delivery from late 2025, remains in place[1]. The larger MAX-10s will transport more passengers for a similar amount of fuel to current 737 aircraft, resulting in 17 per cent less emissions per seat per trip.

Virgin Australia maintains one of the youngest commercial fleets in Australia, with an average age of 11.7 years. In coming days, work will start on a $110 million interior refresh and product upgrade across the airline’s existing 737s. The first refitted aircraft is scheduled to come out of maintenance in Melbourne in early December, and the project will be completed during the next 18-24 months. The project includes:

Installation of in-seat power for all Business Class and Economy seats.
Installation of new Business Class seats, consistent with the new Boeing MAX-8 aircraft.
Installation of new or refreshed Economy seats, with seat design to be consistent with the new Boeing MAX-8 aircraft.
Introduction of in-flight Wi-Fi and complimentary in-flight entertainment (via a guest’s own personal device) to aircraft not yet upgraded for WiFi.

https://newsroom.virginaustralia.com/release/virgin-australia-increases-737-max-8-aircraft-order

[Radi K]

My guess would be IFC installation:

http://https://www.stsaviationgroup.com/sts-aviation-group-launches-sts-mod-center/ (https://www.stsaviationgroup.com/sts-aviation-group-launches-sts-mod-center/)

Thats correct. You can see the antenna in this picture.

https://imgur.com/QWUZy06 - photo by Josh Deitz

8IA and 8IC will get WIFI at a future date.

[James Smith]

8IB has repositioned from BNE to SYD this morning and is due to depart at 9:35 AEDST as VA 555 to PER.

[Stirling D]

8ID sn66638 added to the register 16/1/24

[Greg Hyde]

8ID (66638/8863) has been spotted at Renton in full paint.

[Greg Hyde]

8ID has made its first flight at Renton as BOE005 (03:11)

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IF/66647 was added to the VH-Reg on 08/02/2024

VH-8IE/66644/8882 was skipped

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IE/66644/8882 was added to the VH-REG on 28/02/2024.

[Greg Hyde]

8ID had two test flights yesterday.

2nd Flight 01:06 BOE005
CA Flight BOE005 which it is yet to complete

Name: St. Kilda Beach

[Lauren J]

Name: St. Kilda Beach

This is the first 777 name to be reused. Four ATR-72 names have also been reused (three on MAXs, one on a 737-7K2).

[James Smith]

VH-8ID is currently flying BFI to MLB, Florida as VA9946, following the pattern of 8IB for IFE installation, prior to its delivery flight to BNE. This should take approximately two weeks.

[Stirling D]

8ID due into Brissy on the 21st from NOU.

[MarkR]

The carrier business ordered 14 737 Max-8s in total, with the bulk of this order originally due to arrive by the end of this year and four already in service. The group now expects just four Max-8s to be delivered this year in light of the production delays, with the remaining six not expected until 2025. Virgin had originally expected one Max-8 to arrive every month for the rest of this year.

Virgin’s order of 25 Boeing 737 Max-10s were due to begin arriving next calendar year. The airline has pushed back its delivery timeframe to FY26.

https://www.smh.com.au/business/companies/boeing-crisis-delivers-another-blow-to-virgin-20240314-p5fcjd.html

[James Smith]

VH-8ID has operated the first leg of its delivery flight home, MLB-PHX as VA9947. It is scheduled to fly PHX-KOA-NOU-BNE arriving tomorrow at 15:15 local.

[Michael Mak]

Depending on the wind and weather, the delivery route can be KOA-BNE non-stop? 8IA-C skipped the NOU stop from memory.

[Greg Hyde]

https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/vh-8id

[James Smith]

8ID spent the night in PHX and did not continue after refueling straight onto KOA. It is currently about an hour to run to KOA as VA9947. 8ID is now due to to arrive in BNE tomorrow at 15:13, 24 hours later than originally scheduled, according to the Virgin Flight Status site. It maybe a little earlier if the NOU stop is not required.

[James Smith]

8ID is currently flying between KOA and BNE and has an ETA of 12:27 local time. The potential NOU refueling stop has not been required so the prevailing winds must not be too unfavourable. Flight time is estimated as 8 hours 59 minutes.

[Michael Mak]

According to FR24, the first revenue flight for 8ID will be on Monday 25/3 operating VA464 BNE-PER.

[Yusef D]

8ID grounded due to non conforming engine parts, so things are going great, Virgin's patience with Boeing must be wearing thin.

[Lauren J]

Virgin's patience with Boeing must be wearing thin.

Over a component that Boeing did not design or manufacture? Maybe they should've gone with the competition, since the PW1000G is so reliable...

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing is running out of high-level managers who they can sack.

[Greg Hyde]

Don't know if this is good news:

VH-8IF has been spotted in Renton in primer.

[Yusef D]

...but not 8IE?

[Greg Hyde]

...but not 8IE?

Yep,

VH-8IF (MSN 66647/8919)

"F" was added to the VH-Reg before "E"

https://www.flickr.com/photos/148006280@N03/53622448170/

[MarkR]

Over a component that Boeing did not design or manufacture? Maybe they should've gone with the competition, since the PW1000G is so reliable...

hmm, JBU2220 (A321neo) suffered an engine failure two weeks after delivery, stuff happens

[Rowan McKeever]

Over a component that Boeing did not design or manufacture? Maybe they should've gone with the competition, since the PW1000G is so reliable...

Assuming 'non-conforming' means what it usually means, compliance is squarely in Boeing's court as the manufacturer/assembler of the finished product. I dare say VA isn't alone in having their patience worn thin by Boeing at this point. Also, there is a second engine option for the A320neo family...

[Yusef D]

Boeing is responsible for the compliance of newly delivered aircraft, even if the stuff up starts with a supplier, whether that supplier is CFM for engines or Spirit Aerosystems for fuselages, doors etc.

[Greg Hyde]

Boeing is responsible for the compliance of newly delivered aircraft, even if the stuff up starts with a supplier, whether that supplier is CFM for engines or Spirit Aerosystems for fuselages, doors etc.

The contract is with Boeing not the individual part suppliers

[James Smith]

Originally Posted by Yusef D
8ID grounded due to non conforming engine parts, so things are going great, Virgin's patience with Boeing must be wearing thin.

8ID is back in the air currently operating VA685 MEL-PER.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IF has had its first flight as BOE008 lasting 02:56 at RNT

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IF has had a second test flight lasting 00:45

[James Smith]

VH-8IF had its third flight showing as its customer acceptance flight being 2 hours 51 minutes from BFI on 21/4/24.

[James Smith]

According to Virgin Flight Status, VH-8IF is scheduled to fly from BFI to MLB, Florida as VA9946 on 26/4/24 for IFE installation, prior to its delivery flight to BNE.

[Greg Hyde]

Thanks, James

Haven't seen a picture of 8IF in full paint or her name as yet.

[James Smith]

Greg, from another site, the name is "Maroochydore Beach" and a link to a photo of 8IF:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/acturpin/53653448051/in/photolist-2pGr4Es-2pKaWRa

I needed a magnifying glass to confirm the name!

[Greg Hyde]

Greg, from another site, the name is "Maroochydore Beach" and a link to a photo of 8IF:

https://www.flickr.com/photos/acturpin/53653448051/in/photolist-2pGr4Es-2pKaWRa

I needed a magnifying glass to confirm the name!

Thanks again James,

I think a telescope is more appropriate.

On the IFE date above it should arrive in BNE on or around 06/05/24 (Based on prev).

[James Smith]

Greg, of the two MAX's so far sent to MLB for IFE work, 8IB took 12 days, excluding the arrival and departure days and 8ID took 6 days. I presume that they both had the same work done. We'll see if a week is going to be the normal installation time from here on in.

[James Smith]

According to Virgin Flight Status, VH-8IF's flight from BFI to MLB scheduled for today has been cancelled.

[James Smith]

According to Virgin Flight Status, after the cancelled flight to MLB on 26/4/24, VH-8IF has been rescheduled to fly from BFI to MLB, Florida as VA9946 on 1/5/24 for IFE installation, prior to its delivery flight to BNE.

[James Smith]

According to Virgin Flight Status, VH-8IF's flight from BFI to MLB scheduled for 1 May, 2024 has been cancelled.

[James Smith]

According to Virgin Flight Status, after the cancelled flights to MLB on 26/4/24 and 1/5/24, VH-8IF has been rescheduled to fly from BFI to MLB, Florida as VA9946 on 3/5/24 for IFE installation. Fingers crossed.

[Michael Mak]

VA9946 on May 3rd seemed to have been cancelled again. Does anyone know why the delivery flight kept getting pushed back?

[Michael Mak]

VA9946 is now rescheduled for May 8th according to FR24

[Greg Hyde]

I've seen nothing showing that 8IF has been delivered.

[Rowan McKeever]

The flight showing on 8 May (local time) is to Melbourne, Florida, for installation of customer equipment (assuming it happens this time!?).

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IF is now showing as delivered, so expect the ferry to Melbourne, Florida should go ahead

[Yusef D]

8IF is in MLB, oddly scheduled as VA9947 9 May local time to KOA via ONT. Could wifi have been installed already??

[Greg Hyde]

FR24 is showing that it flew to MLB on the 08/05 local as VA9946

[Stirling D]

8IF showing into BNE at 1505 on the 16th.

[James Smith]

The latest onward delivery information for 8IF on Virgin Flight Status is to depart MLB tomorrow, Friday morning, 17/5/24 US time for ONT, then KOA and a scheduled arrival in BNE of 15:05 Sunday 19/5/24.

[Dennis McLean]

8IF now due in BNE at 13.04 today 19/5/24.

[Greg Hyde]

With so many false starts we need to SEE this one, to believe its here.

[Dennis McLean]

Almost here, 36 mins to go.

[Dennis McLean]

landed 13.38.

[Robert.M]

Starting to wonder IF it would ever arrive. ;)

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IG/66648 was added to the VH-reg on 20/05/24.

[Yusef D]

makes me wonder what's wrong with 8IE.

[Greg Hyde]

8IE was added to the VH-Reg after 8IF.

8IF on 08/02 & 8IE on 20/02

[Robert.M]

According to FR24, VA920 was supposed to be operated by 8IF but is cancelled.

[Tristan S]

Now scheduled to operate VA314 BNE MEL on 24MAY24

EDIT
Now VA1398 BNE ADL later today.

[Greg Hyde]

It wasn't when but IF 8IF would enter service

First rev, VA1398/1405 BNE ADL BNE

[Lauren J]

Was this the first BNE-ADL 737MAX flight?

[lloyd fox]

Lauren i believe so..Could well be the first VA MAX8 altogether at ADL???

[Tristan S]

While it doesnt seem like there have been many flights, a quick look on FR24 shows that there have been a at least two - 8IB operated VA1384 on 28FEB24 and 8IC VA1388 on 16MAR24.

[Lauren J]

Does anyone know what the test registrations for 8IB and 8ID were? 8IA, C, and F all used “N4022T” as a test registration, but I’m not sure about the others.

[Stirling D]

They all wore their VH rego for their flights.

[James Smith]

Virgin B737-8 MAX, VH-8IG, MSN 66648/8905 (callsign BOE007) is currently operating its first flight from RNT to BFI on 24/5/24.

Total flight time was 2 hours 30 minutes.

[Greg Hyde]

Now I'm wondering what happened to 8IE ?

[Greg Hyde]

Does anyone know what the test registrations for 8IB and 8ID were? 8IA, C, and F all used “N4022T” as a test registration, but I’m not sure about the others.

Lauren,

Have a look at the link below for Test Regs.

You may find that Boeing has a block of Test regs that it uses repeatedly.

N4022T seems to be the flavour of the month/year.

Boeing may allocate a reg to a frame and not use it.

Earlier Boeings types flew with test regs before being added to the local register.

https://www.planespotters.net/airframe/boeing-737-max-8-vh-8ia-virgin-australia/rm85lk

[Lauren J]

Lauren,

Have a look at the link below for Test Regs.

You may find that Boeing has a block of Test regs that it uses repeatedly.

N4022T seems to be the flavour of the month/year.

Boeing may allocate a reg to a frame and not use it.

Earlier Boeings types flew with test regs before being added to the local register.

https://www.planespotters.net/airframe/boeing-737-max-8-vh-8ia-virgin-australia/rm85lk

Thank you! :)

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IG has had a second test flight as BOE007 lasting 01:00

Nice shots of 8IG flying but can't zoom up to read the name.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IE has finally made an appearance at Boeing in full VA livery

Named "Brighton Beach" (can zoom this one)

[James Smith]

VH-8IE as BOE006 (MSN 66644/8882) has just completed its first flight on 12/6/24 from RNT-BFI lasting 2 hours 27 minutes.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IE has performed a second test flight lasting 01:02

[Yusef D]

8IG flight planned from BFI to MLB (Melbourne Florida) 18 Jun 1100 LT. VA9946.

[Greg Hyde]

8IG flight planned from BFI to MLB (Melbourne Florida) 18 Jun 1100 LT. VA9946.

Still haven't seen a name for 8IG yet.

No images hi-res enough to zoom up and read.

[James Smith]

VH-8IG as BOE007 (MSN 66648/8905) has just completed its customer acceptance third flight on 18/6/24 from BFI-BFI lasting 2 hours 53 minutes. It looks as though 8IG's departure to MLB from BFI on 18/6/24 has been cancelled.

[Tristan S]

8IG to MLB scheduled now for the 20th, still as VA9946

[Yusef D]

...possibly indicating a problem was identified in the acceptance flight.

[James Smith]

I don't think there was a problem, Yusef. The flight to MLB was scheduled to depart BFI at 11:00 am on 18/6/24. At that time the customer acceptance flight was still taking place and didn't arrive back at BFI until 12:20pm on the same day - 18/6/24. We'll see if the scheduled departure on 20th takes place.

[James Smith]

8IG is on its way from BFI to MLB and is currently on decent. It should be there for nine or ten days before its delivery flight to BNE.

[Lauren J]

Still haven't seen a name for 8IG yet.

No images hi-res enough to zoom up and read.

8IG appears to be "Whitehaven Beach" Greg! :)
https://www.jetphotos.com/photo/11366780

[Greg Hyde]

8IG appears to be "Whitehaven Beach" Greg! :)
https://www.jetphotos.com/photo/11366780

Thanks, Lauren

[James Smith]

VH-8IE as BOE006 (MSN 66644/8882) has completed its third flight being its customer acceptance flight on 24/6/24 from BFI-BFI lasting 2 hours 48 minutes.

Virgin Flight Status is showing VH-8IG is scheduled to depart MLB on its delivery flight at 8:00 on 26/6/24 (local US time).

[James Smith]

VH-8IE is scheduled to fly as VA9946 from BFI to MLB today at 11:00am local US time.

It looks as though VH-8IGs onward delivery flight from MLB to BNE has been cancelled for today.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IE as BOE006 (MSN 66644/8882) has completed its fourth flight being its customer acceptance flight on 26/6/24 from BFI-BFI lasting 1 hour 41 minutes.

[James Smith]

VH-8IG has left MLB as VA9947 and is on its way to ONT and then KOA on 27/6/24. It is scheduled to arrive in BNE at 15:10 on Saturday 29/6/24.

[James Smith]

8IE is on its way from BFI to MLB and is about to commence descent.

8IG is about to commence descent into KOA.

[Tristan S]

Looks like 8IG will leave KOA tomorrow and arrive into BNE at 1510L tomorrow afternoon.

[James Smith]

VH-8IH, N4022T (MSN 66650/8944) has been spotted in primer with engines installed at RNT on 26/6/24.

https://www.airhistory.net/photo/701426/N4022T

[Lauren J]

VH-8IH, N4022T (MSN 66650/8944) has been spotted in primer with engines installed at RNT on 26/6/24.

https://www.airhistory.net/photo/701426/N4022T

I believe that’s the last one with a known MSN, is that correct?

[David C]

Looks like 8IG will leave KOA tomorrow and arrive into BNE at 1510L tomorrow afternoon.


FR24 is showing arrival BNE @ 1339L hrs today 29/6

David C

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IH, MSN-66650, LN-8944 has been spotted in Renton with primer and engines fitted.

It also carries the rest reg N4022T

[Dennis McLean]

VH-BIG now due at 13.14 today

[Lauren J]

Future MAXs will be 8II, 8IJ, 8IK, 8VA, 8VB, and 8VC.

[James Smith]

Thanks for the registrations, Lauren. Boeing said when the order was increased from 8 to 14 Max 8s that they would all be delivered by the end of 2024. If they deliver one aircraft per month, with 8IH (8th Max) in July they will still be short by one aircraft at the end of December. A very tall ask for Boeing. It will be interesting to see how close they come.

[Dennis McLean]

I meant 8IG in my message at 11.05 not BIG, seems I was dreaming??????

[Lauren J]

Thanks for the registrations, Lauren. Boeing said when the order was increased from 8 to 14 Max 8s that they would all be delivered by the end of 2024. If they deliver one aircraft per month, with 8IH (8th Max) in July they will still be short by one aircraft at the end of December. A very tall ask for Boeing. It will be interesting to see how close they come.

I can't share any other details unfortunately but I can confirm all the remaining MAXs have 92xx Line Numbers, which hopefully means they're going to be not that far away (currently the last of the 89xx aircraft are being built). Three of them also have sequential serial numbers, a first for VA's MAX fleet. Looking forward to having more of them in Australia as they are awesome planes.

[Tristan S]

8IG is in the schedule, due to open its account on VA771 BNE CNS tomorrow (03JUL24)

[Rowan McKeever]

8IG is in the schedule, due to open its account on VA771 BNE CNS tomorrow (03JUL24)

And so it has, currently on the way back as VA776. Showing on the BNE-NAN tomorrow.

[Michael Mak]

8IE is on her way to BNE, currently flying the first leg of the delivery flight: MLB-ONT as VA9947.

[James Smith]

8IE as VA9947 departed MLB for ONT early on 3/7/24 (local US time) on the commencement of its journey to BNE. Delivery is MLB-ONT-KOA scheduled for 3/7/24, KOA-BNE 4-5/7/24. Scheduled arrival time into BNE is 3:00pm on Friday, but it could be earlier as was the arrival of 8IG.

[James Smith]

8IE left KOA about an hour early this morning and is halfway to BNE at this time. According to Flightaware and Virgin Flight Status she has a revised arrival time in BNE of either 12:45pm or 1:00pm respectively, today Friday 5/7/24.

[Michael Mak]

According to FR24, 8IE is scheduled to enter revenue service tomorrow (July 8th) as VA314 BNE-MEL then VA323 MEL-BNE.

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IH/66650 was added to the register yesterday.

[Yusef D]

All 7 A-G (so far) flying for the first time today.

[James Smith]

VH-8IH, N4022T (MSN 66650/8944) has been spotted in full colour scheme at RNT on 15/7/24. It is named "Palm Beach."

[Greg Hyde]

VH-8IH, N4022T (MSN 66650/8944) has been spotted in full colour scheme at RNT on 15/7/24. It is named "Palm Beach."

Thanks James,

Nice hi-res image to zoom

Palm Beach was previously used on VA B777-3ZGER VH-VOZ

[James Smith]

VH-8IH, (MSN 66650/8944) using callsign BOE009 had its first flight of 2 hours 34 minutes from RNT to BFI on 19/7/24.

[James Smith]

VH-8IH, (MSN 66650/8944) using callsign BOE009 had its second flight lasting 26 minutes from BFI to BFI on 26/7/24.

[James Smith]

VH-8IH, (MSN 66650/8944) using callsign BOE009 had its third flight lasting 1 hour and 5 minutes from BFI to BFI on 30/7/24.

[Lauren J]

Does anyone know why the CNS-HND route drops to 5x weekly in September and October, only to return to daily in November? It seems weird that they would decrease frequency for 10ish weeks, then increase to daily again.

[MarkR]

Does anyone know why the CNS-HND route drops to 5x weekly in September and October, only to return to daily in November? It seems weird that they would decrease frequency for 10ish weeks, then increase to daily again.

Demand, it’s low season now until Nov and no one’s going to fly a small plane via CNS when you can get wide bodies from the east coast for three figures, In am heading up the in a few weeks via Syd thanks the the A333 double daily flights which means no red eyes both ways with QF

[James Smith]

Virgin Australia has scheduled VH-8IH to ferry as VA9946 from BFI to MLB tomorrow, Friday at 11:00am local US time (Saturday 17/8/24 at 4:00am AEST). The flight has already been postponed once and particularly with the first leg of a delivery flight is always subject to last minute change.

[James Smith]

VH-8IH, (MSN 66650/8944) using callsign BOE009 had its fourth flight, also its Customer Acceptance Flight lasting 3 hours and 3 minutes from BFI to BFI with missed approaches at MWH on 15/8/24. All going well with the CAF, 8IH is still scheduled to depart BFI for MLB at 11:00am local time on 16/8/24.

[Greg Hyde]

James,

When I checked yesterday I noticed that 8IH had not been delivered.

Until it is formally delivery it won't leave Boeing.

[Yusef D]

Where do you get that information, James?

[James Smith]

Originally posted by Greg Hyde
When I checked yesterday I noticed that 8IH had not been delivered.

Greg, my post #223 has the delivery flight at 11:00am Friday local time - Pacific US time, which is 4:00am AEST Saturday, 17 hours later. So, no it has not left BFI as yet until early tomorrow morning Australian Eastern Time as scheduled by Virgin.

Originally posted by Yusef D
Where do you get that information, James?

Yusef, Virgin Australia (as does QANTAS) has a Flight Status page which gives flight times for their flights up to three or more days ahead. I found out that they include their delivery flights from BFI via MLB to BNE which are usually VA9946 to MLB and VA9947 from MLB. They do get pushed back and 8IH was originally scheduled for a few days earlier but postponed, as it turned out because the customer acceptance flight had not taken place, which has now happened. Hopefully, the CAF has not delayed its departure from BFI again.

[Michael Mak]

The delivery flight is now showing ‘cancelled’ on FR24.

[James Smith]

VA9946 was showing on FlightAware less than 2 hours prior to the scheduled departure. It looks to be a last minute issue to prevent 8IHs delivery from Boeing to Virgin.

[Tristan S]

8IH completed another flight earlier, listed as the second CAF, and is scheduled to fly to MLB at 1100L which I guess will occur if the second CAF was successful.

[Tristan S]

Delivery of 8IH has occurred, she's now on route to MLB.

[Ayden H]

8IH was meant to leave MLB tomorrow morning however VA's website is showing the flight as cancelled, I presume this is due to it being retrofitted with the high density cabin layout (8 business, 174 economy) with 4 rows of Economy X (down from 5)

[James Smith]

8IH left MLB for ONT as VA9947 two and a half hours late on 27/8/24 (US time) and has just left ONT for KOA according to FlightAware. Virgin Flight Status is estimating that 8IHs ETA into BNE will be 14:15 tomorrow Thursday 29/8/24.

[Ayden H]

Seems like I've been misinformed then. Likely didn't have any cabin work done to it then

[James Smith]

Ayden, the Max 8 delivery flights go via MLB to have the wifi antenna fitted and maybe other work to do with the entertainment system. It is performed by STS Aviation Group who do among other aviation work, aircraft inflight connectivity.

If you look at photos posted online of 8IH in BFI with no antenna fitted and then after delivery you will see the antenna installed towards the rear of the fuselage roof. 8IA and 8IC, the first two max's delivered did not visit MLB, probably as Virgin was wanting to take delivery asap to replace the 737-7s on CNS-HND. AFAIK they haven't had them fitted since delivery.

[James Smith]

8IH left KOA on time and FlightAware is showing an estimated arrival time in BNE of 13:33 this afternoon. Virgin Flight Status is showing arrival as 14:00.

[Tristan S]

8IH left KOA on time and FlightAware is showing an estimated arrival time in BNE of 13:33 this afternoon. Virgin Flight Status is showing arrival as 14:00.

FR24 showing arrival of 13:37.. take your pick :D

[Ayden H]

VA's website is giving me ETA 1400 STA 1415, FR is still saying 1337 though

[Tristan S]

8IH scheduled to operate its first RPT flight on Sunday, 01SEP24, VA314 BNE MEL.

[Stirling D]

8IA is operating BNE-HNL-MLB as VA9946

[James Smith]

Thanks for the information, Stirling. Hopefully, 8IC to follow after 8IA has returned from the installation of its inflight connectivity in MLB.

[Michael Mak]

8IA is now enroute MLB-ONT on her way back to Australia as VA9947

[James Smith]

8IA is just about to arrive in KOA and after overnighting will depart for an arrival into BNE scheduled for 13:55 tomorrow, Sunday.

[James Smith]

8IA is now due into BNA at 12:23 today.

[Lauren J]

8IA is now due into BNA at 12:23 today.

Just confirming it’s Brisbane not Nashville?

[James Smith]

Yes BNE, Lauren. I blame fat finger syndrome! BTW, 8IA is straight back to work currently operating VA334 BNE-MEL.

[lloyd fox]

Source:Virgin

Departing Virgin Australia CEO Jane Hrdlicka has announced that the airline will refit several of its existing MAX Dash 8 aircraft and will acquire some REX aircraft as delays continue with the delivery of its Boeing 737 MAX order.

Hrdlicka also rejected rumours of floating of Virgin Australia on the market and any talk of Qatar investing in the airline.

“Today I’m making a small announcement I know people were expecting a big one, but we have an order book that with Boeing that includes Max Dash 8 and Dash 10s,” she told audience on Day 2 of the CAPA Airline Leader Summit Australia Pacific 2024 being held in Brisbane.

“We’ve converted 12 Dash 10s to Dash 8s to ensure that we’ve got a steady pipeline of aircraft coming into our business.

“We have 8 Dash 8’s today they’re performing so well for us there’s so fuel efficient, quiet and just very good performance for our pilots and our cabin crew love the aircraft and customers love the aircraft.’

“We’ve got another six coming in the next 12 months so and then got another 12 that we’ve just converted and so then we’ve got options for more 10s down the track.

“We’re picking up a handful of the Rex aircraft that haven’t yet left the country to help give us more degrees of flexibility as we adjust with Boeing’s needs to manage the challenges that both Boeing and Airbus are facing with respect to getting their supply chains back in balance.”

The airline received its fourth MAX 8 in March and was expecting a further 31 new 737 MAX aircraft, including six MAX 8s and 25 MAX 10s.

Virgin, now owned by private equity company Bain Capital, expects to only receive four more MAX 8s in 2024 from an original order of 14. The remaining six are expected to arrive in 2025.

The MAX 10s are not expected to arrive until 2026 at the earliest.

As for an initial public offering (IPO) of Virgin Australia on the market, Hrdlicka said the runours were untrue.

“I hate to be the bearer of same old same old, but first that a matter for our shareholders,” she said.

As for the Qatar stake, “we don’t play with rumour and innuendo and there has been a lot of creative fiction written”, she said.

Hrdlicka, the Tennis Australia chair, says she will now spend more time on addressing issues within the game. Following the loss of her husband to cancer, and the recent death of her father, Hrdlicka said she will also be spending more time with her two boys, aged 17 and 19.

Hrdlicka was appointed Virgin Australia CEO in November 2020 after it was sold to Bain Capital and has decided to leave the role after four years of “heavy lifting”.

Virgin Australia was placed into voluntary administration in April 2020 with debts of $6.8 billion, after the federal government and Richard Branson’s Virgin Group declined to provide additional funding to save the airline.

CAPA also announced that the Airline Leader Summit Australia Pacific 2025 will be held in Cairns 31 July – 1 August.

[Greg Hyde]

With Boeing suffering delivery delays and quality control issues, the machinists have gone on strike.