Virgin Australia’s award-winning Business Class will begin flying across the Tasman tomorrow, as part of a progressive rollout in the New Zealand and Pacific Island markets.

The inaugural return flight will operate from Auckland to Sydney and signifies an enhancement to the airline’s premium service offering on trans-Tasman and Pacific Island routes. All other services come into effect on 31 March 2015.

A progressive refit on 10 of the airline’s Boeing 737 fleet is currently underway, reconfiguring the aircraft with the 2-2 business class configuration, which feature luxury leather seating and menus designed by resident head chef Luke Mangan, as well as the introduction of priority services including check-in and boarding.

Virgin Australia Chief Commercial Officer Judith Crompton said: “With Virgin Australia’s renowned Business Class making its inaugural flight across the Tasman tomorrow, this is a significant milestone for Virgin Australia.

“The Trans-Tasman and Pacific Island routes remain a very strong focus for us and importantly, customers travelling in these markets now have more choice when it comes to business and premium leisure travel.

“The enhancement also allows us to offer a consistent customer proposition in conjunction with our alliance partner Air New Zealand,” Ms Crompton said.

Virgin Australia Business Class features include:

- Luxury leather seating with 38” seat pitch on the Boeing 737
- Comfort packs with luxurious blankets, pillows, and International-style amenity kits including Australian organic cosmetics by GROWN for flights over three hours
- Newspapers until noon daily
- Exclusive Luke Mangan gourmet full service dining experience
- Premium Australian wines, beers, and spirit selection
- Gourmet tea selection from Madame Flavour
- Priority baggage service where available