New wing opens at CBR as Virgin unveils lounge, biz class services

Virgin Australia has unveiled its new Canberra Airport lounge.

Virgin Australia’s wing of the overhauled Canberra Airport officially opened today, marking an important milestone in a $450 million upgrade that airport officials hope will prime the facility for a larger role.

The facilities unveiled today include a sweeping glass atrium that connects the Qantas wing of the airport with Virgin’s new Western Concourse Terminal, as well as new check-in counters, baggage areas and security checkpoints.

Work at the airport is scheduled to continue through November, with construction of a new taxi rank, the demolition of the old terminal and the replacement of two aerobridges still to come.

Virgin will offer business class services from Canberra aboard its refurbished Embraer E190 regional jets.

In addition to the terminal’s official opening, Virgin unveiled its new 300-seat Canberra lounge and formally launched business class service across its fleet of 18 refurbished Embraer E190s.

“For the first time in over a decade Australians will have a choice when it comes to competition in Business Class travel in and out of the capital.” Virgin CEO John Borghetti said. “Canberra is an important hub for corporate, government and leisure travellers and we now offer a premium end-to-end travel experience that not only encapsulates Virgin Australia’s distinct look and feel but also our high standard of service.”