The first Virgin Australia, formerly Virgin Blue, (ASX: VBA) A330 service from Sydney to Perth took to the skies this morning with commercial guests and media onboard.

Virgin Australia Group Executive Commercial Liz Savage said the flight represented a new era for the group and provided guests with a choice for Business Class for the first time in 10 years.

"This Airbus A330 aircraft named Cable Beach is fitted out with new designer Economy and Business cabins developed by Creative Director Hans Hulsbosch."

The new economy class service features leather seating, seat-back inflight, up to 32 inch seat pitch, and Luke Mangan on-board retail menu entertainment.

The new Business class service features leather seating with 62 inch pitch, seat-back inflight entertainment, entry to the lounge, dedicated washroom facilities, daily newspapers, amenity kits on three+ hour flights, priority baggage service, pillows and blankets on three+ hour flights, more carry-on baggage storage, and a meal service by Aussie chef Luke Mangan.

Ms Savage said the A330 schedule provided convenient departure and arrival times for corporate and leisure guests.

"From July we will operate a three times daily service, providing a total of more than 33,000 seats each week between Sydney and Perth.

"The service commences from Sydney to Perth on 26 May 2011 with an 8.00am departure followed by a 1.00pm departure from Perth later that day. From July we will operate a three times daily service," she said.

Virgin Australia fares commence from $219* one way in Economy Class. Business Class Guest fares commence from $1399.00* one way which includes a complimentary limousine* transfer to and from Sydney Airport one way booked on the internet between Sydney and Perth.