Virgin Atlantic marks 40th anniversary with aircraft honouring Sir Richard Branson

An Airbus A330neo, which will enter into service in May, will be named Ruby Rebel and will feature a new flying icon that Virgin said would embody Branson’s “rebellious spirit”.

The Ruby Rebel icon – whose features resemble those of Branson’s daughter Holly – nods to the Bransons’ many ventures, featuring a Virgin Records pin as well as a Virgin Galactic rocket and a Tubular Bells charm bracelet.

“Ruby Rebel embodies the rebellious spirit that’s always driven us to do things differently and the best is yet to come,” said Virgin Atlantic chief executive Shai Weiss.

“So much has changed, but the one thing that’s remained constant is our incredible people and their unique red spirit, the red thread that keeps us flying miles above the rest.”