Overview
- The scheme is live on eight domestic and short‑haul international routes, with a broader rollout planned after the trial.
- Passengers can bid from AU$30 to keep the adjacent seat empty, with confirmation issued no later than two hours before departure.
- Eligibility is limited to Economy bookings of one or two travelers, with a maximum of one adjacent seat per booking.
- Economy X and Business are excluded, the add‑on does not include extra baggage, availability may change during the bidding window, and refunds are provided if the seat cannot be delivered.
- Virgin cites a 2023 Velocity survey showing strong willingness to pay for extra space, and similar paid-empty-seat options already exist at carriers such as Air France.