Love at first flight, Virgin Atlantic crew Malcolm and Jacqui renewed their vows at the iconic Little White Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas

Sir Richard Branson crashed a wedding in Las Vegas yesterday, stepping in as the surprise officiant for two Virgin Atlantic crew members renewing their vows at A Little White Wedding Chapel. 

It was love at first flight for the couple, Malcolm and Jacqui King-McKinnon, who met 40 years ago during Virgin Atlantic’s first year of operating. To celebrate each of these milestones, with each other and with the airline, which celebrates its own 40^th Anniversary this year, Virgin Atlantic arranged the surprise appearance by Branson. 

Branson donned a red bedazzled blazer and boutonniere as he stepped in for an Elvis impersonator to complete the ceremony before sending the couple off in a Virgin Hotels cab waiting for them outside of the iconic “Tunnel of Love.”

Malcolm and Jacqui met during one of Virgin Atlantic’s first flights from Manchester, UK, to North America in the airline’s inaugural year in 1984 and have been together in the sky and in life ever since. After spotting Jacqui in the iconic red uniform, Malcolm offered to help her with her luggage, and committed to taking every flight he could with her from then on. Forty years later, the couple is married, has raised a family and still flies the skies together any chance they get. As Flight Service Managers, they operated the airline’s new route between Manchester and Las Vegas last Sunday. The couple will continue their celebrations with a Ruby Spa Villa gifted by Virgin Hotels Las Vegas and a ‘honeymoon’ cruise with Virgin Voyages later this year. 

Other Virgin Atlantic crew members and CEO Shai Weiss were in attendance to celebrate. The vow renewal was an extra special moment as both Malcolm and Jacqui are based in Manchester, where the airline just launched its newest route between Las Vegas and Manchester on June 2. The route, featuring daily flights, will give Las Vegas residents the opportunity to experience summer in the vibrant city of Manchester. Known for its famous music scene, iconic soccer teams, revolutionary history, mouthwatering food and drink, and cool neighborhoods, Manchester is an unmissable gateway for those looking to explore the North of England and Wales.  

Sir Richard Branson, Founder, Virgin Atlantic said:

“Our incredible people are what makes Virgin Atlantic so special – they are mavericks, trailblazers, they are kind and fun. Getting to celebrate two of those people who have been with us since day one was an honour. Malcolm and Jacqui’s love story started at Virgin Atlantic, which makes them part of the family. They’re also proof that we’ve been bringing people together for the moments that matter for four decades – in a way that only Virgin Atlantic can!” 

Malcolm King McKinnon, Virgin Atlantic Flight Service Manager, commented;

“They call it love at first sight but for us it was love at first flight! Today has been incredible and it means so much to Jacqui, our daughters and myself. Virgin Atlantic brought us together and has given us opportunities to explore the world and create countless memories we’ll cherish forever. We look forward to continuing the celebrations and for many more years together, in the skies and beyond!”