Virgin launches ‘neighbour-free seating’ auctions on flights
Airline scheme lets travellers bid for extra space on flights
- Virgin Australia has launched a "neighbour-free seating" option for passengers on selected domestic and short-haul international flights.
- Eligible economy passengers can bid via the airline's app to reserve the adjacent seat, with prices starting from AU$30 (£14).
- A successful bid is confirmed no later than two hours before departure, but the empty seat is not guaranteed and a refund is provided if it is subsequently purchased.
- The initiative aims to offer more personal space to economy travellers, following a 2023 survey indicating strong passenger interest in paying for an empty middle seat.
- Other airlines, such as Qantas and Air France, already offer similar schemes to provide passengers with additional comfort.