PICTURES: Virgin Blue's new business class seats

Virgin Blue's new business class seats and service will debut in May on twice-daily flights between Sydney and Perth.

The cabin of the two Airbus A330s, which Virgin Blue has obtained from Emirates, will boast 62 inches of legroom and seatback video screens fitted to luxury leather seats.

"This is not only the best domestic business class in the market but it's here to stay" said Virgin Blue CEO John Borghetti, unable to resist the opportunity of a shot against Qantas.

"The A330 will operate exclusively between Sydney and Perth... it won't come in and out of routes like the large-body aircraft of some other airlines."

A third A330 will join the fleet in June, before similar seats are introduced on Virgin Blue's factory-fresh 737-800s.

Borghetti told Australian Business Traveller that the 737-800 product would be "very similar in DNA, but obviously it won't be a 62 inch pitch on the 737 because you’ll only get three rows in it."

Travellers at the pointy end will also enjoy a full meal service.

Borghetti said a similar reveal would be held for economy class in the coming weeks.

Coverage of Virgin Blue's overhaul

Australian Business Traveller's comprehensive coverage of 'the new Blue' also includes: 

• Virgin Blue will be opening three new domestic lounges, as well as upgrading the Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane lounges,  with Sydney getting a special fast-track lounge for premium passengers
• CEO John Borghetti says inflight Internet will be available as soon as possible, likely within 2 - 3 years
• Stylish new uniforms for Virgin Blue flight attendants and crew which play up the airline’s palette of red, silver and purple
• The Velocity Rewards programme is set for an extensive overhaul, including a points tie-up with Etihad

David Flynn

David Flynn is the Editor-in-Chief of Executive Traveller and a bit of a travel tragic with a weakness for good coffee, shopping and lychee martinis.