VIRGIN ATLANTIC LAUNCHES 'FLYING PAWS' - 28 APRIL 2005

Norwalk, CT (April 28, 2005) - Virgin Atlantic’s furry passengers are now able to earn gifts for themselves and frequent flyer points for their owner after the new 'Flying Paws' reward program launched on May 1, 2005.

Sir Richard Branson, Chairman of Virgin Atlantic, said,

"Having pets of my own I know how important it is for our passengers to feel that their pets are well looked after when traveling. This reward scheme is unlike any other and will set a precedent amongst the four-legged frequent flyers, after all it is the pawtastic club to belong to!!"

On their very first Virgin Atlantic flight the jet-setting pets will be given a welcome onboard pet pack, which has been specially designed with their needs in mind. Dogs will be given an exclusive Virgin doggy t-shirt and sparkling dog tag and cats will receive a toy mouse called 'Red' and a Virgin collar tag. All of the exclusive gifts are part of a whole host of goodies available for the passengering pets.

All pets that travel on the 'Passport for Pets' scheme will be given a passport which will not only give them a record of all their flights, but also allows them to collect ?paw prints’ which can be redeemed for their gifts.

One 'paw print' is awarded per flight and once our furry travelers have collected five points they become eligible for some of the fantastic goodies available, such as handmade Virgin bowls plus a specially designed non-slip mat so they can 'dine in style' or they can choose to donate their rewards worth fifty human pounds to their favourite registered animal charity or sanctuary. Alternatively, if they are feeling particularly loving towards their human friend, they can show their true feelings by donating 1000 bonus air miles to his or her Flying Club account.

More individual gifts are available once the pet has flown 10, 15 or 20 times from blow dries and pedicures to Burberry, Prada and Gucci pet clothing to a personal Pawtrait from the famous artist Cindy Lass, who is renowned for her paintings of celebrities furry companions around the world.

"Passports for Pets"and the reward program is available on most Virgin Atlantic routes.

For further information please contact the Virgin Atlantic Press Office at 203-750-2570 or log onto www.virginatlantic.com