Virgin Australia Boeing B737-700 VH-NHW (ex PH-BGU) First Visit to Central Queensland at Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport

On Thursday 29 December, Virgin Australia Boeing B737-7K2(WL) VH-NHW was photographed making its first visit into Central Queensland at Proserpine (Whitsunday Coast) Airport after it was acquired by the airline from KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

VH-NHW operated the VOZ1117/8 afternoon service from and back to Brisbane. It had only entered service with Virgin Australia on Christmas Day.

As mentioned, the B737-7K2(WL) was previously operated by KLM (Royal Dutch Airlines) as PH-BGU with it wearing a temporary registration marking of 2-BBMH prior to it then being placed on the Australian Aircraft Register.

File photo

VH-NHW was delivered to Virgin Australia, arriving into Brisbane Airport on Sunday 18 December from Singapore (Seletar) Airport as VOZ9948.

It’s also interesting to note that VH-NHW is yet to be painted into the Virgin Australia livery nor has been named.

As mentioned below, Virgin Australia will take delivery of seven former KLM B737-700 aircraft.  It is reported these aircraft are PH-BGR, PH-BGW, PH-BGU, PH-BGX, PH-BGK, PH-BGL and PH-BGT.

All these aircraft will reportedly operate with an all-economy 138-seat layout.

The fourth B737-700 aircraft due for delivery is 2-HBGT (to become VH-NJV) (ex PH-BGT) and is currently also at Singapore receiving pre-service maintenance. It is reportedly in full Virgin Australia livery and titles and also wears the name 'Little Beach'.

Photos taken by 'AC' and Gideon van Dijk  ©