David Cassidy on the Web
Virgin America comes to Fort Lauderdale airport
November 18, 2009
By Bill Frogameni
bizjournals.com
http://news.moneycentral.msn.com
"Virgin America Airlines on Wednesday debuted service at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport.
"The Burlingame, Calif.-based low-cost airline is partially owned by Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group, the British company that owns Virgin Atlantic.
"Virgin America will offer twice-daily nonstop flights from San Francisco International Airport and Los Angeles International Airport to Fort Lauderdale. Fort Lauderdale is the 10th destination in Virgin America's network.
""The decision to make Fort Lauderdale the newest destination in the airline's network is a testament to the investments made in our airport and the strong tourism economy of our region," Broward County Mayor Ken Keechl said in a news release. "The move to provide new nonstop service will create jobs, stimulate tourism and improve service for local travelers."
"Virgin America will face low-cost competition from Spirit Airlines, Southwest Airlines and JetBlue Airways, which have the highest market shares at the airport.
"Virgin's presence will mean more than $250,000 in expected annual revenue for the airport, according to county documents.
"A ceremony is planned for Wednesday afternoon, including an appearance by Branson, various Broward County dignitaries and assorted celebrities - including 1970's teen heartthrob David Cassidy - said Colleen McCormick, Virgin spokeswoman.
"Branson was scheduled to meet the first Virgin planes on the runway and offer them a water cannon salute while surrounded by Virgin's "fly girls," the nickname for the company's stewardesses.
"Passengers will be greeted with champagne and speeches before moving to an after-party at the W Hotel Fort Lauderdale.
