Virgin Galactic to expand Presence in the Middle East

Virgin Galactic is planning to expand its presence in the Middle East region. Travel agencies in the region are being encouraged to register their interest in selling space travel with the Virgin Galactic Accredited Space Office in Dubai. Registration should include an initial proposal outlining credentials, client base/profile, location, network and why they feel their company has what it takes to sell space travel in their local market.

Virgin Galactic claims to have already sold more than 200 spaceflight tickets globally which equates to more than US$30million in deposits, representing more than US$45million of future income.

“Travel agents play an integral role in the Virgin Galactic distribution process. As a trusted advisor and source of information for their clients, we are seeking only the best agencies to sell spaceflights. We want to create a network of agents in the Middle East who are knowledgeable, well informed and know how to deliver the highest levels of service when selling unique travel experiences,” said Ms Carolyn Wincer, Head of Astronaut Sales, Virgin Galactic.

At US$200,000 per ticket, Virgin Galactic’s flights are a mere fraction of the US$20 million price tag associated with other commercial space tourism providers.

The first test flights are slated to take place in the summer of 2008 and the first commercial flights are likely, end of 2009. Virgin Galactic will own and operate privately built spaceships, modeled on the history-making SpaceShipOne craft. These spaceships will allow affordable sub-orbital space tourism for the first time in mankind’s history.

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