V-Flyer

Maybe everyone but me knows this, but didn't realize Virgin and El-Al were now in a serious code share partnership.

VS137 (LHR>JFK) the other day had a 30+ Orthodox school kids in Economy, with the safety video now having Hebrew subtitles on screen.

Bit surprised there were not enhanced security checks with this alliance, but maybe that's in the works?

I didn’t know about the Virgin-El-Al code share either. It’s kind of surprising, but I guess it makes sense given the routes they’re covering. The Orthodox school group and Hebrew subtitles are definitely a clue that things are getting more serious. I’d expect them to ramp up security soon enough, but it seems like they’re still working out the details.

The codeshare with EL-Al started in June last year. Press release here.

Yup, JFK 'Clubhouse' lounge is now shared with El-Al Biz flyers too.
A little disappointed in that - its a small and often pretty crowded already there, but...

The Hebrew subtitles are very 'in your face' (a lot of screen estate, for the whole safety video) - they don't do that for other languages, like Spanish speakers, so I'm confused on the implementation of that - or is it flight occupancy specific?

Hmm cannot say I’ve noticed on last few visits to JFK clubhouse; however I for one will be using the Delta One Lounge in the future when flying back UC - even though I like the VS staff, Delta One lounges are a big step above

We're all different, but I personally prefer the intimacy and friendliness of the JFK VS Clubhouse. I was in the Delta One lounge 2 weeks ago, and found it rather impersonal - too big and too full of Delta Elite flyers. Felt more like some over large hotel lobby, then a welcoming lounge.
At least in the clubhouse, it's long-haul international, and as VS is not one of the mega carriers, it's never too crazy crowded.

But -Happy you liked it. We all value different things.

Ok thanks all.

I think I'm a little bit wary, as during prime covid 2020, I had to fly transatlantic a few times for a failing parent, and the Orthodox pax on every flight simply refused to wear masks. They'd put them up for the moment a flight attendant told them to, then immediately pulled them down again, as soon as they moved on. Extremely selfish behaviour, and especially distressing to see when going to visit a vulnerable old person.
Sigh.

Anyways... onwards!