Virgin Atlantic celebrates its 40^th birthday this year and, coinciding with the special date, the airline unveils a new aircraft. Ruby Rebel is the airline’s latest Airbus A330-900neo to join Virgin Atlantic’s fleet. The aircraft, its fifth Airbus A330neo, enters service this May and will also feature a brand-new flying icon inspired by Sir Richard Branson and the rebellious spirit of the airline.

The icon draws inspiration from Holly Branson, Sir Richard Branson’s daughter, and includes nods to Sir Richard’s career and famed business ventures with details like Virgin Records pin badges, a Tubular Bells charm bracelet and a Virgin Galactic rocket on the belt’s buckle.

© Virgin Atlantic Airways

“Forty years ago, Virgin Atlantic flew our first customers between London and New York offering something different and realizing our purpose to ensure everyone can take on the world,” said Shai Weiss, CEO, Virgin Atlantic. “As we gear up to mark our Ruby anniversary in June, it’s an opportunity to look ahead to the next forty years. 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. It all started with Richard on June 22, 1984, a pioneer with a vision to shake up the travel industry, putting people first and giving customers a choice. Ruby Rebel embodies the rebellious spirit that’s always driven us to do things differently. And, the best is yet to come.”