Virgin Galactic seeks space agents

Virgin Galactic will be looking to appoint more Middle East sales agents for its sub-orbital space flights at ATM.

Travel agents will have the opportunity to apply to sell space travel in partnership with the Virgin Galactic Accredited Space Office in Dubai, with selected applicants joining a shortlist from which the chosen sales agents will be announced.

"Travel agents play an integral role in the Virgin Galactic distribution process. As a trusted advisor and source of information for their clients, we are seeking the best agencies to sell spaceflights," said Carolyn Wincer, head of astronaut sales, Virgin Galactic.

"We want to create a network of agents in the Middle East who are knowledgeable, well informed and know how to deliver the highest levels of service when selling unique travel experiences."

Virgin Galactic has already sold more than 200 tickets globally and at US $200,000 per ticket has received $30 million in deposits and a projected future income of $45 million. Test flights are due to take place this summer with the first commercial flights taking off by the end of 2009.

"We anticipate finalising the appointment of agents before the end of the year and commencing the all important ‘accredited sales agent' training through the region.

It takes a very talented and skilled travel consultant to sell a trip to space," said Sharon Garrett, head of space marketing and PR, at Dubai's Virgin Galactic Accredited Space Office (Sharaf Travel).