Long-haul flights 'cheaper than ever'

Long-haul air travel is cheaper than it has ever been before, as increasing numbers of people become willing to pay for flights to far-flung destinations, according to Virgin Atlantic.

A spokesperson for the airline said that the growing audience for long-haul travel is making the industry more competitive, which consequently drives down prices.

"A competitive market means competitive ticket prices," Anna Knowles of Virgin Atlantic explained.

"Long-haul air travel is cheaper than it has ever been and very often cheaper per mile than short-haul air travel and domestic travel."

One of the most important elements of long-haul flights is the comfort on offer to passengers, according to the airline spokesperson, and a rising number of people are showing a willingness to pay slightly extra to ensure a comfortable journey.

"There is definitely a growing segment of people who are willing to pay for more space and luxury when they are travelling on their leisure trips and who are contributing to the growth in the premium economy sector," Ms Knowles said.

Virgin Atlantic operates from Heathrow and Gatwick Airport in London, as well as Manchester and Glasgow Airport, and offers flights to destinations in Asia, Australia, the US, Africa and the Caribbean.