Virgin Atlantic releases mesmerising timelapse footage of aircraft getting new paint job

The jets were transformed to replace some of the airline's Dreamliners

Virgin Atlantic has released mesmerising timelapse footage of an aircraft being given an elaborate makeover, complete with full paint job in Virgin’s livery and an interior redesign.

The plane was one of four Airbus A330-200 models purchased in March by the airline from Air Berlin, which ceased operations in 2017.

The aircraft in the video, named Daydream Believer, is seen being given a whole new coat of paint on the exterior, with wingtips and tail emblazoned in Virgin’s signature red, in a hangar at Manchester airport.

The film then shows a team of staff in China fitting all-new, sleek, black chairs into the empty cabin.

“I’m thrilled to see the first of our fully refurbished A330-200s arrive into our fleet and looking amazing” said Daniel Kerzner, vice president of customer experience at Virgin Atlantic.

“Initial response from our customers and our people has been fantastic. These planes were introduced to protect our flying programme with a commitment to bring them up to our high standards with our unique Virgin Atlantic flair.

“The speed at which we’ve been able to totally transform these aircraft is phenomenal, and is a true testament to our people and our passion to deliver a wow experience to our customers.”

The other three A330-200s have been christened Strawberry Fields, Honky Tonk Woman and Scarlett O’Hara respectively, and are expected to have undergone their own refurbs by January 2019.

Together with Daydream Believer, they will fly Caribbean routes from London Gatwick and US routes from Manchester.

Virgin Atlantic acquired the new aircraft to replace some of its Boeing 787 Dreamliners, as the model has been beleaguered by issues with its Rolls-Royce Trent 1000 engines.

The airline is making the most of the new planes; all upper class suites onboard the A330-200 jets will offer direct aisle access and enhanced surface area for additional personal space, while seats can be converted into a bed at the touch of a button.