Virgin America, the latest brainchild of British tycoon Sir Richard Branson, has been cleared to begin operations as a bona fide US airline.
The new carrier is promising an irresistible blend of low fares and luxury on-board services between destinations across the States. With approval from the Department of Transportation (DOT), the vision is now significantly closer to reality.
Initially, the operator will link its San Francisco hub with New York, before also linking Los Angeles, Washington, San Diego and Las Vegas. Aiming to serve ten cities within the next 12 months, Virgin America expects to add 30 cities to its route network within five years.
“We are absolutely thrilled to be cleared for take-off and for the opportunity to serve San Francisco, the Bay Area, California, and the American public,” said the carrier’s chief executive Fred Reid.
“I applaud the DOT for approving our application and fulfilling their long-standing commitments to competition and new choices for travelers.”
One of the provisos of the approval, however, is that Mr Reid will step down as chief executive within six months of the carrier’s certification, due to his overseas business interests.
Americans taking to the skies are reminded to invest in adequate travel insurance cover, to protect themselves against the unforeseeable.
Contributed by J.Bevan
