In an exclusive tribute for Airliner World, Sir Richard Branson, founder of Virgin Atlantic Airways, describes in his own words the influence Sir Freddie has had on him and the wider industry
Virgin Atlantic in 1984 was the first of numerous airlines launched by Sir Richard Branson, including Virgin Express, Virgin Sun, Virgin America and Virgin Blue (later Virgin Australia)
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Sir Richard Branson and Sir Freddie Laker pose for the cameras outside the US Embassy in London in August 1997 ahead of meeting with US Congressmen in their battle to prevent a proposed merger between British Airways and American Airlines
PAUL VICENTE/AFP VIA GETTY IMAGES
Dear readers, I’m honoured that the team at Airliner World asked me to contribute to this special commemorative issue. Sir Freddie Laker had a profound impact on many lives. The aviation industry would certainly not be what it is today without him. He was not only a visionary but truly selfless. He was a mentor and a friend who always used the benefit of his experience to support so many others.
