Virgin Atlantic flies 50 Ukrainian orphans from Poland to UK as part of relief campaign UK News

The Boeing 787 aircraft also supported three pilots and nine cabin crew with humanitarian efforts organized by MDA UK, Save a Child and Dnipro Kid.

The return flight, which arrived at London Heathrow Airport around 8pm on Wednesday, brought 50 Ukrainian orphans, ranging from young children to teenagers, their legal guardians and British charity workers.

Virgin Atlantic staff embrace. Credit: Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic takes no payment for operational flight costs and the fuel was donated by ESSO Petroleum free of charge.

“At Virgin Atlantic, we will all do everything in our power to support the innocent people caught up in the war in Ukraine. We are delighted to partner with Dnipro Appeal, MDA and Save a Child and commend them for the incredible work they are undertaking to bring these children to safety,” commented Shai Weiss, CEO of Virgin Atlantic.

Mr Weiss added: “We will continue to seek ways to use the power of our people and our aircraft to support the humanitarian relief effort in Ukraine and we will stand ready to act as opportunities arise.”

How else has Virgin Atlantic supported Ukraine?

Virgin Atlantic flight displaying the British and Ukrainian flags. Credit: Virgin Atlantic

• Virgin Atlantic diverted all onboard donations to save children in March
• They raised £125,000 for UNHCR from the VA foundation.
• Fundraising from staff, partners and customers will be matched by the Virgin Atlantic Foundation to the tune of £50,000.
• Virgin Atlantic is working with Airlink and Missouri-based nonprofit humanitarian organization Convoy of Hope to transport thousands of humanitarian aid items to Ukraine and neighboring countries.
• More than 60,000 pounds (c27,200 kg) of supplies are transported free of charge as part of the partnership, including; food, hygiene kits and childcare items.