Burlingame-based Virgin America Adding San Jose Flights

Burlingame-based Virgin America is touting its new service to San Jose International Airport,  as a catalyst for jobs and lower fares on the San Jose to Los Angeles air route.

Virgin America, which bills itself as "the only airline headquartered in the Bay Area," plans to initiate nonstop service between Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on May 1, according to airline representatives.

"Silicon Valley flyers can now stay connected on the only airline with WiFi on every flight," Virgin America officials claim.

Virgin America president and CEO David Cush, San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed and other business and civic leaders have been invited to welcome the first Virgin America flight to touch down at San Jose International, according to the airline.

Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Group Founder, is also expected to attend.

"The first commercial flight guests will be met with a red carpet welcome and reception at the arrival gate within SJC’s Terminal A," Virgin America officials said.

Virgin America will be "the only carrier operating on the route to offer WiFi on every flight, touch-screen entertainment platforms with features like live TV and interactive Google maps, and power outlets near every seat," airline officials said.

"Virgin America's new service will increase local jobs and economic growth, offer more fare competition and provide a fresh new flight option for San Jose travelers," airline officials said.

The airline is planning to launch the route with four daily roundtrip flights between San Jose and Los Angeles.

Virgin America, a U.S.-controlled and operated airline, is a separate company from Virgin Atlantic, according to the airline. Branson's Virgin Group is a minority share investor in Virgin America.

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