Virgin Atlantic celebrating 25th anniversary

Virgin Atlantic arranged a special flight to New York and other events today (June 22nd) to mark the 25th anniversary of its launch.

Sir Richard Branson, president of Virgin, flew to New York with other VIPs and celebrities including England cricketer Kevin Pietersen and actor Christopher Biggins, who was on the airline's very first flight 25 years ago.

The celebrations also saw Sir Richard joined on the wing of a Boeing 747 aircraft by model Kate Moss prior to the flight's departure.

Speaking at Heathrow Airport, the Virgin boss said: "It seems a long time ago that we took that first flight in 1984 and so much has been achieved since then.

"We would like to thank the millions of travellers that have put their faith in us and the thousands of staff who have created such a great airline."

Prime minister Gordon Brown also helped celebrate the occasion, saying that Britain boasts "the world's most innovative and competitive airlines" and praising Virgin Atlantic for its "pioneering spirit".

Throughout the year, the airline has been building up to its anniversary by offering special fares to international destinations such as Shanghai and Chicago.

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