Move FM Global News

MOJAVE, California: Space-tourism company Virgin Galactic Holdings has announced that it hopes to launch its first commercial flight in late June, adding that a four-member test flight will take place in May.

After the company, backed by billionaire Richard Branson, said that the mission in May will be the last trial for the rocket and practice for astronauts before the start of its commercial services, its shares rose by 4 percent.

In May 2022, due to a supply-chain crisis and labor shortages, Virgin delayed its commercial service until the first quarter of 2023.

After upgrading its centerpiece tourist spacecraft in February, Virgin Galactic re-opened ticket sales for space flights, with tickets costing $450,000 per person, with an initial deposit of $150,000 being required.

“Returning to space is what we have all worked towards,” said Mike Moses of Virgin Galactic.