Branson was on a trip to the British Virgin Islands when his flight got canceled. Instead of waiting around, he chartered a plane and split the cost with other stranded passengers. That moment sparked an idea: why not start an airline that put customers first? Branson leased a secondhand Boeing 747 from Boeing and took on British Airways and other industry giants. His goal was to create a more enjoyable flying experience-focusing on better service, ult entertainment, and comfort. Virgin Atlantic