Geopolitical tensions, regional conflicts, extreme weather events and rapidly changing travel conditions are reshaping the way organisations think about traveller safety.

In this episode of In Flight, Matt Forbes is joined by Laura Welsh, Head of Global Partnerships & Customer Success at Riskline, Robin Stehlik, Chief Commercial Officer at Pilgrims Risk Management Group and Alex Shcute, Global Operations Lead at Pilgrims.

Together, they explore how organisations can stay ahead of evolving threats, the importance of proactive risk management and what duty of care looks like in today’s travel landscape. From airspace closures and crisis response to traveller tracking, training and real-world evacuations, the conversation offers practical insights for businesses of every size.

Whether you’re responsible for a global travel programme or simply want to better understand the challenges facing travellers today, this episode provides an inside look at the people and processes working behind the scenes to keep journeys safe.

What really happens behind the scenes when global disruption hits aviation

Recorded at Virgin Atlantic HQ, Matthew Forbes sits down with Harry Conibear-Griffiths, Senior Manager of Business Resilience, to explore how one of the world’s leading airlines prepares for crises, protects travellers and responds to everything from cyber threats to major weather events.

From emergency planning to operational resilience, this conversation offers a fascinating look into the systems and people keeping global travel moving safely.

Join Matthew Forbes at Virgin Atlantic HQ as he sits down with Flight Service Manager Simon Cowley for a behind-the-scenes look at what truly makes great service in the skies.

From building a cabin crew “family” in just 30 minutes before take-off to reading the energy of an aircraft at 37,000 feet, Simon shares how Virgin Atlantic creates a travel experience that is calm, uplifting and stylish.

The conversation explores the human side of flying, premium hospitality, accessible travel, loyalty, nervous flyers and the small details that turn a journey into a memorable experience. Along the way, Simon also shares stories from life in the air, his favourite routes, onboard secrets and what it really means to represent one of the world’s most iconic travel brands.

A must-listen for frequent flyers, hospitality lovers and anyone fascinated by the art of service.