SALM TEAM 
Virgin Atlantic is making it easier than ever to fly between South Africa and the UK, with an updated Johannesburg flight schedule designed to give travellers more choice, flexibility, and convenience.
Taking effect from 26 October 2025, the new timings mean customers arriving in Johannesburg will now land in the early morning, ready to maximise their day. Meanwhile, those heading to London will enjoy later evening departures from Johannesburg, ensuring a smoother overnight journey into the UK and onward connections across Virgin Atlantic’s extensive network via London Heathrow.
New Johannesburg–London Heathrow Schedule:
– London Heathrow (LHR) to Johannesburg (JNB)
– Previous departure: 22h30 → New departure: 18h50
– Previous arrival: 11h30 → New arrival: 07h50
– Johannesburg (JNB) to London Heathrow (LHR)
– Previous departure: 19h30 → New departure: 21h45
– Previous arrival: 04h50 → New arrival: 06h50
Marc Harding, Country Manager South Africa, Virgin Atlantic, commented; “Johannesburg has always been a special destination for Virgin Atlantic, and we’re proud to play a role in connecting South Africa and the UK. These latest changes are about making the journey even better for our customers – whether that’s maximising their time on the ground, seamless onward connections, or simply experiencing the unique service we’re known for. We remain deeply committed to this market and excited to keep building on the strong ties between South Africa, the UK and beyond.”
Virgin Atlantic has proudly served South Africa for close to 30 years, connecting Johannesburg with London while fostering vital business, cultural, and leisure links.
Today, the route remains a key gateway to the world, offering seamless onward access to destinations across North America, the Caribbean, and Europe via London Heathrow. As a proud member of SkyTeam, Virgin Atlantic customers also benefit from enhanced global connectivity and reciprocal frequent flyer perks across the alliance’s extensive network. In addition, partnerships with local carriers, including convenient codeshare options, make onward travel within South Africa even easier.
Customers travelling with Virgin Atlantic can look forward to award-winning service across Upper Class, Premium, and Economy cabins – from stylish comfort and inflight entertainment to world-class dining and the airline’s signature hospitality.
For those beginning their journey in South Africa, the experience starts on the ground at Virgin Atlantic’s Johannesburg Clubhouse. Open to eligible customers*, the lounge is a celebration of local flavour, serving freshly prepared dishes with South African flair alongside a handpicked selection of regional wines and spirits. Combined with elegant design, soft lighting, and thoughtful touches such as showers and luggage storage, the Clubhouse is the ideal place to savour a taste of South Africa before take-off.
*Access to the Johannesburg Clubhouse is available from three hours before departure for Upper Class customers, Flying Club Gold members, and SkyTeam Elite Plus members travelling internationally with Virgin Atlantic or Delta. Virgin Australia Velocity Gold, Platinum and Beyond members are also eligible, as well as Volare Premium, Executive and Executive per Sempre members.
