Virgin Atlantic has made its inaugural flight on the new London to Vancouver service.

Flights will initially operate four times a week from London Heathrow to Vancouver throughout the summer up until October 27th 2012.

The British-based airline anticipates up to 40,000 passengers will travel on new route in the first season.

To help celebrate the inaugural flight Sir Richard Branson was joined on the steps of the aircraft by Amy Williams MBE, winter Olympic Gold medallist from Vancouver 2010.

Take a look below at the celebrations surrounding the launch: