Virgin Australia has announced a major upgrade to its domestic travel experience by allowing eligible Economy Flex passengers to switch to an earlier flight on the same day at no extra cost.

The new Fly Ahead feature removes both change fees and fare difference charges, provided seats are available.

Travellers can make the change through the Virgin Australia app or at the airport on the day of travel, giving them greater flexibility when plans change.

The airline says the move is aimed especially at business travellers and frequent flyers who value convenience and want to spend less time waiting at airports.

Virgin Australia says it is the first Australian airline to offer this benefit to eligible domestic Flex fare customers, expanding a feature that was previously available only to selected Velocity members.

The airline believes the change will save passengers both time and money while making domestic travel more convenient.