Virgin Australia recently welcomed the revolutionary Boeing 737-8 to its fleet as part of its ambitious transformation agenda, a milestone underpinning its robust commitment to sustainable air travel.

Adding the fuel-efficient 737-8 underpins its ongoing fleet expansion and renewal programme in what marks a new chapter in Virgin Australia’s history. The delivery of the aircraft, christened “Monkey Mia” or VH-8IA, signals a significant shift towards green aviation, promising enhanced passenger experiences and impressive sustainability targets.

The state-of-the-art 737-8, carrying a specialist Virgin Australia flight crew, journeyed nearly 12,000 kilometres from Seattle, Washington, to Brisbane, the airline’s home base. This delivery coincides with Virgin Australia’s inaugural Cairns-Tokyo (Haneda) service, slated to employ the 737-8 from July’s end.

Next-generation amenities in the cockpit of the 737-8 include device holders, in-seat power, and a promise of a quieter flying experience. Equally, it underscores the airline’s commitment to reducing environmental impact, as these aircraft are 40 per cent quieter and 15 per cent more fuel-efficient per flight compared to the 737-800 NG fleet.

Stuart Aggs, Virgin Australia Chief Operations Officer, expressed that these new aircraft are the backbone of the airline’s transformation. “These new aircraft will allow us to grow capacity and support more efficient jet services,” he stated. “They will reduce emissions by at least 15 per cent per flight, supporting our commitment to targeting net zero emissions by 2050.”

Furthering the airline’s decarbonisation ambitions, Virgin Australia has ordered a fuel load blended with 30 per cent Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) for the delivery flight’s first leg to Brisbane. A fuel efficiency initiative set to support over 80 per cent of their 2030 interim target to reduce carbon emission intensity by 22 per cent.

VH-8IA’s range outperforms the 737-800 NG, making it a valuable asset for the airline’s new Cairns-Haneda route. This route will bridge Tokyo and Far North Queensland, offering travellers a comfortable and eco-conscious option between these popular destinations.

Named after Australian bodies of water, Monkey Mia pays homage to the Shark Bay region in Western Australia. The aircraft is part of 33 MAX family aircraft set to join Virgin Australia in the next five years. By aligning with the company’s sustainability vision, introducing these aircraft will undoubtedly accelerate the airline’s transition to a more carbon-neutral future.

The MAX Family’s unique capabilities feature the latest advanced technology engines and winglets, offering the highest efficiency in the single-aisle market. According to Erika Pearson, Boeing Vice President, Commercial Sales and Marketing, Southeast Asia and Oceania, the 737-8 will effectively allow Virgin Australia to service Australia’s dynamic commercial aviation market.

Virgin Australia leased the aircraft from China Aircraft Leasing Group Holdings Limited (CALC). Winnie Liu, CALC’s Executive Director, Deputy CEO, and CCO, applauded the partnership, stating the arrival of the first 737-8 supports the airline’s sustainable fleet optimisation program and represents a milestone for CALC.

This achievement is just the beginning for Virgin Australia, with 25 more 737-10s ordered for delivery starting next year. As the airline continues to expand, it promises a new era of more efficient, quieter, and sustainable air travel, reshaping the future of aviation.

Written by: Christine Nguyen

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