As an avid and lifetime traveler, I have experienced a lot of different airlines over 30 years. I can tell you what most airplane models are, what makes them different and how to pick a good seat. I have been loyal to American Airlines for over 10 years as I have status and I know how the airline works. I also feel a certain kinship with United as my mother works for the airline. I have traveled on many other airlines over the last few years and enjoyed the ride, including Delta, Continental, Southwest, US Air, Air France, and Air Tahiti Nui, but nothing has gotten me more excited than Virgin America. If anyone can bring back the glory days of flying, they can.
I recently flew Virgin America to San Francisco. I was hesitant to leave American, but the price was better and I had heard amazing things about them. When I got to the airport, I was pleasantly surprised to find that security moved fast and the terminal was clean, bright and modern. Despite an hour delay due to weather in San Francisco, we boarded, and I was immediately happy. Given my last minute ticketing, I did not have a lot of options for seat availability so I paid a little extra to get an automatic upgrade for an aisle seat in the exit row. It was wonderful – lots of leg room, comfortable seats and the much talked about personal TV’s in every seat. The movie on demand feature was already working so I was able to start a movie before we even took off. They also had headsets in each seat. Our flight was delayed another hour on the ground so the ability to watch a movie was a perfect solution to being stuck on the tarmac. And the movie options were all new and interesting – not just the usual boring movies they always tend to play.
In addition to movies on demand, the personal entertainment system TV shows, a wide array of music, web programming, email, IM and text capabilities as well as a button for food service. This feature must come in handy when taking Virgin America across the country – those 5-hour flights can get long and uncomfortable without a snack and fluid to keep you hydrated. In addition to reading content, shopping, and games - the TV in your seat offers entertainment for kids! There is WiFi on every flight and for a limited time over the holidays it is free! The flight attendants and pilots were professional (despite our pilot getting the time wrong) and nice and treated everyone with respect even when some passengers became upset with the delays. The cabin was light and airy with some fun neon lighting creating a relaxed but cool vibe. It was unlike anything I had ever flown before and I am happy I was able to experience it!
Not only was Virgin America a great flying experience, but the prices were right. They give you the choice of booking fares based on the route not the round trip fare, so you have flexibility in fares and seating. I am going to start flying Virgin America more – because I love to travel and why not enjoy the whole experience when a spirited airline welcomes you with open arms!
Monica Rohleder
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