Virgin goes red, white and blue

LONDON group Start Design is working on a completely new image for Virgin Atlantic, which will include an evolved corporate identity, a new livery, new cabin interiors and new above and below-the-line marketing material.

The group has been working with Virgin’s in-house team on the project since January 1998.

Virgin Atlantic has approached sister airline Virgin Express, with a view to rolling out elements of the new brand to its livery. Virgin Express services the European market and is yet to announce whether it will take up the offer.

The new design is expected to play up Virgin Atlantic’s Britishness, after British Airways’ decision to drop the red, white and blue from its tail fin.

“We will celebrate the dynamics of the Virgin Atlantic brand and confirm its heritage as a British airline,” says Start senior graphic designer Martin Muir.

See News Analysis, page 8