Virgin America: The Troubled History & Beyond

Virgin America is the newest United States airline which was created by the wealthy entrepreneur, Sir Richard Branson. Sir Richard Branson announced his plans to create the airline in early 2004. San Francisco was chosen as the airline's hub after much consideration. Virgin America was originally supposed to launch in the summer of 2005. The launch, however, became much more complicated than planned.

Many investors were cautious to invest in Virgin America, due to the failing US economy. Because of this, Virgin America had much trouble getting financed. It was not until December 2005 when Virgin America acquired financing. After acquiring financing, Virgin submitted the required paperwork to the US Department of Transportation so it could begin flying. To reduce competition, many preexisting airlines influenced the government with large opposition against Virgin America.

The large opposition influenced the US DOT to deny Virgin's application. Both the public and the airline were outraged. To be able to take to the sky's, Virgin restructured dramatically. They announced the possibilities of taking Sir Richard Branson and Fred Reid off the management team. Virgin also considered dropping the "Virgin" naming completely to be able to fly. After a lengthy process, Virgin America was given certification by the Department of Transportation in March 2007.

After overcoming a variation of multiple obstacles, Virgin America began selling tickets in July of 2007. In August of 2007, Virgin had it's inaugural flight from New York to San Francisco. The troubled airline started out with 3 destinations, but quickly increased their count to five destinations. In 2008, Virgin America plans on starting service to San Diego and Seattle, among other destinations.

As a new entrant to the US aviation market, it is often thought that Virgin will not last long. While this is possible, there is much to enjoy at the moment. Virgin offers competitive pricing, and is often equal in price to many other carriers. The luxuries offered on board are the best in the US aviation industry, and are worth much more than the affordable price of the ticket. The amenities on board Virgin America are endless. Virgin offers over 3,000 songs on board for the entertainment of it's passengers along with food ordering right from the touch-screen in front of you. Pay Per View movies and 110v power are also available at every seat aboard the plane.

The future of Virgin America is currently unknown, but most of their passengers wish them the best of luck after flying and experiencing their superior product. Hopefully, the troubles' of launching Virgin America will not be in vein.