Virgin Atlantic has unveiled a new Airbus A330neo adorned with a special livery paying tribute to Joan Branson, the late wife of Sir Richard Branson. The design, inspired by Alberto Vargas’s artwork "Lady in Red," features an image of Joan Branson as she appeared around 1976, the year she met Branson at a recording studio in Oxfordshire. The illustration also incorporates tartan details in her skirt lining, reflecting her Scottish heritage.

Joan Branson passed away in November 2023 at the age of 80 due to a pulmonary blood clot. Sir Richard Branson, 76, expressed his appreciation for the tribute, describing the plane’s design as a touching reminder that evoked many fond memories of his late wife.

Corneel Koster, chief executive of Virgin Atlantic, highlighted Joan Branson’s longstanding connection to the airline, noting that she was involved from its early days. She took part in Virgin Atlantic’s inaugural flight in 1984 and remained a cherished member of the Virgin family throughout the following decades.

The commemorative livery serves as both a personal homage and a celebration of Joan Branson’s enduring role within the Virgin Atlantic community.