Branson to go a cut above for charity flight

RichardsF1    Formula 1     Richard Branson, Team Lotus, Tony Fernandes, Virgin Racing

Sir Richard Branson’s upcoming stewardess appearance on the AirAsia charity flight will give the billionaire magnate exposure like never before. The Englishman will have his legs shaved mid-flight while he serves his punishment for losing a bet with Team Lotus boss Tony Fernandes. Passengers on the charity flight will be allowed to bid for the privilege, and it’s believed that the winning bid will be upwards of $US650,000 for the honour, according to a statement from the low-cost carrier.

AirAsia’s mock-up could be quite close to reality, it would seem…

Branson will hand the razor – which one assumes will be allowed to pass the rigorous airline safety regulations – over to one of 160 lucky passengers on the long-haul flight from London to Kuala Lumpur, which will take off on 1 May. Branson will also be dressed head-to-toe in AirAsia’s stewardess’ uniform.

Last year, Branson and Fernandes each wagered their new Formula 1 teams would be the other’s in the 2010 championship season, promising that the loser would serve as a stewardess on the winner’s airline. Fernandes’ Team Lotus beat Branson’s Virgin Racing team by two places in the Constructors’ Championship standings.

“As an AirAsia flight attendant, Richard would have to comply to our grooming standards, and that includes shaving his legs,” Fernandes is quoted as saying in an airline statement.

“Rather than shave him myself, Richard and I thought we could have a bit of fun, engage with our guests and raise more money for charity if we opened up the opportunity to the highest bidder,” he added.

Proceeds from the bid and the entire flight’s ticket sales – believed to be about $US7,300 per person for the one-way ticket – will go to beneficiaries under Branson’s Virgin Unit not-for-profit foundation.

Fernandes has confirmed, however, that Branson will be allowed to keep his famous beard, but that the 60-year-old would be required to wear high heels, makeup and perform the full duties in accordance with a stewardess’ role.

Can’t wait for the photos!

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