Virgin Atlantic announces new routes to the Maldives and Turks and Caicos Islands

Beginning October 2023, Virgin Atlantic will fly to the captivating islands of the Maldives and Turks and Caicos.

Opening up a new world of tropical possibilities, a seasonal three-times-weekly service will operate between London's Heathrow Airport (LHR) and the Maldives. Tickets will go on sale Nov. 30, 2022, for flights commencing Oct. 22, 2023.

The peak time to visit Maldivian shores is between November and April, making this seasonal route particularly tempting for those already thinking about getting some winter sun next year.

With close to 190 different types of coral to explore, sand whiter than a "Love Island" contestant's teeth and waters teeming with wildlife, this South Asia paradise is now easier to reach than ever. Who hasn't wanted to stay in one of the water villas on stilts you normally only see in films?

Elsewhere — some 9,000 miles, in fact — Virgin Atlantic has unveiled plans for a year-round twice-weekly flight to Turks and Caicos, launching Nov. 15, 2023, with seats going on sale Jan. 11, 2023.

The ultra-exclusive destination joins the Bahamas, St. Vincent, the Grenadines and Jamaica in Virgin Atlantic's enviable Caribbean portfolio.

Related: Norse Atlantic Airways now selling summer 2023 tickets — and there are great deals to be had

Juha Jarvinen, chief commercial officer at Virgin Atlantic, is of a similar mindset.

"We couldn't be more thrilled to add these two exotic new routes to our flying portfolio," he shared. "Nothing sets our hearts soaring like a new destination to explore, so, with two more about to join our network, there's only really one question. Where to first?"

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Jarvinen explains that the Maldives has always been an incredibly popular destination for Virgin Atlantic Holidays customers, "which is why we couldn't wait to give them the opportunity to travel to the idyllic location in style onboard Virgin Atlantic aircraft."

Both new routes will be operated on the airline's Boeing 787-9 aircraft, with 31 Upper Class, 35 premium economy and 192 economy seats up for grabs.

As yet, there's no word on fares, but you can currently find deals with Virgin Atlantic between London and Bridgetown, Barbados, from 512 British pounds (about $608) throughout winter, or 26,000 Virgin points plus 360 British pounds ($428) in taxes and fees.

If you haven't already, it is well worth signing up with Virgin's loyalty program. If you already have, click here to see how you can maximize Virgin Atlantic points for your next trip.