An Introduction to Virgin Atlantic and Current Hot Topics in the Airline Industry

On the evening of September 4th, an audience of more than 60 persons attended a talk by Mr. Paul Sands, the General Manager of Virgin Atlantic in Japan, at the Japan National Press Club. The very informative talk was accompanied by a delightful visual presentation.

In the early 1980s, Richard Branson, then the young head of a key record label, Virgin Records, had the sudden insight to introduce three jumbo jets on the Atlantic Route, which was the beginning of Virgin Atlantic. At present the company is very highly evaluated above other companies for its reputation for a high standard of service and has grown into a unique airline with routes on all the major continents.

The source of this growth is shown in Branson's clear and positive management style of treating all employees well. "To grow a profitable airline that people love to fly with and where people want to work" is his company's mission statement.

The company now has six exclusively assigned staff for internal communication to ensure all employees around the world to share "one value as the company DNA." All these efforts have crystallized in developing revolutionary service of high value-added, and in achieving a basis of stable management.

Examples of Virgin's superior service include "Upper Class," a business class that equals the comfort of First Class, introduction of a "Premium Economy" service for business travelers years before other airlines, and provision of a spacious airport lounge "Clubhouse" at Heathrow Airport which has shower rooms and even a barber shop.

Chairman Sir Richard Branson, who is known for challenging the first non-stop flight around the world in a hot air balloon and establishing a record for the fastest crossing of the Atlantic Ocean in a yacht, has contributed greatly to the company culture by putting himself in action along with the employees, and by inspiring them through undertaking charitable work and tackling environmental problems from the beginning.

Also, his company was far ahead of others in seriously analyzing "customer feedback" and reflecting it in the service improvements, which has become normal business practice today. The recent upward spiral in airline fuel costs is having an adverse effect on Virgin Atlantic also.

Mr. Sands disclosed that efforts are already being made to lessen the impact by active fuel trading and by joining forces with other major world enterprises in the development of a new, future-looking biofuel from an ingredient that does not affect the world market.

The fact that this passionate company strives even in this adverse business climate with the five value keywords, Caring, Honest, Fun, Value, and Innovative, touched the audience's hearts. A lively Q&A session concluded the hour and a half talk.

Our Trip to England: Manabu Igusa and Dai Oba
(Winners of ESUJ University Debating Competition 2007, ICU)

Upon arriving in the UK, we went to the English-Speaking Union headquarters at Dartmouth House, a splendid and dignified historic building, where we met Mr. James Probert, who has visited Japan several times, and Andrew Fitch, who will be coming to Japan in October. We enjoyed our conversation over cups of English tea.

Next was sightseeing in London. We went first to Hyde Park, where many people were jogging and picnicking, enjoying nature and watching the squirrels nearby us, in the center of the huge city. At British Museum, the first wonder we saw was the Rosetta Stone. Seeing this historical "touchstone" from close up, you can only view it with awe. It interested us also to see how Japan is viewed from outside at an independent ‘Japan' exhibition room.

We also visited Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament where we were able to view the lyrically beautiful buildings that are the center of British government in the glow of the evening light from the banks of the River Thames. Unfortunately, we couldn't witness a parliamentary debate by the leaders of the Government and Opposition, but we were able to enjoy the atmosphere of this great debating center to our hearts' content.

After London, we traveled to York, where we could see a traditional English cityscape. Unlike London, where everyone seems to be in a hurry, there all was completely beautiful, centered around York Minster. People moved more slowly in a ‘gentle' ambiance. Surrounded by the castle walls, the city can be viewed while walking along the ramparts. The atmosphere inside York Minster is awe-inspiring. There is a wonderful view from the top.

We feel as a result of our trip that we were able to experience British culture firsthand. It was a very special experience for both of us. We would like to express our appreciation to everyone who helped us with the trip, starting with the members of ESUJ.

News Flash!

Mr. Masamichi Hanabusa, Chairman Emeritus of ESUJ, was elected as the President of ESU International Council at this year's Council Meeting on September 15th in Edinburgh, Scotland.


Coming Soon! British Debate Squad

ESUJ University Debating Competition 2008

Date: October 12 (Sun.) & 13 (Mon. Holiday)
Place: National Olympics Memorial Youth Center