Virgin Atlantic is introducing a charge of £55 for passengers who want to secure the airline’s most popular Premium Economy seats.

Around 30% of each aircraft’s Premium Economy seats will be designated Preferred Premium and there will be up to 16 Preferred Premium seats on each flight, depending on the type of aircraft. The charge applies for bookings made for travel from 25 August onwards.

It follows the introduction of preferred seating for Economy Light and Economy Classic bookings in March 2021, which Virgin says allowed it to provide a consistent customer experience with joint venture partners Delta Air Lines, Air France and KLM.

Premium Economy passengers who’ve already booked their Virgin flights will be allowed to choose Preferred Premium seats at no extra fee, until 22 August, subject to availability.

After that, they’ll have to pay the £55 if they want to choose a Preferred Premium seat.

A Virgin Atlantic spokesperson said: “We want all of our customers to love their experience when they fly with us and recognise that many of them have their favourite place in the cabin. 

“The extension of preferred seating to Premium customers provides more choice and control so they can select a location that suits their individual preference in our award-winning cabin.

“That could be to secure seats near the front of the cabin, a duo seat for couples, or simply the peace of mind that they’ll be sat close to their travelling party to sit back, unwind and enjoy the Premium experience together.”

There will be no charge for passengers who are Diamond, Platinum, Flying Club Gold or Delta Gold members, or customers who have a booking through a corporate contract with Virgin Atlantic.