DFW International Airport Supports Virgin America Effort To Start New Low Cost Carrier In The U.S.

DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, (January 12, 2006) - DFW International Airport CEO Jeff Fegan submitted a letter of support today with the U.S. Department of Transportation supporting low cost carrier startup Virgin America's application for a U.S. airline license. Virgin America has expressed interest in flying long haul flights out of DFW. 

Virgin America has indicated DFW is being considered for new service to New York and San Francisco after the company begins its initial New York - San Francisco route in 2006. With a stated plan to focus their growth on longer-haul, domestic U.S. routes serving major cosmopolitan markets, DFW stands to gain service as the airline grows its network. 

“Flying from DFW to San Francisco and New York with brand new Airbus aircraft, Virgin America could provide DFW and the traveling public a tremendous new resource,” said Joe Lopano, executive vice president of marketing and terminal management. “DFW believes in competition, and a new airline with an exciting new product and price is great for North Texas.” 

“DFW believes that the country needs new U.S. airlines like Virgin America,” said Lopano . “New U.S. airlines increase the opportunities for competition, consumerfriendly fares, economic growth and job creation.” 

Once it begins flying from DFW, Virgin America would join the growing list of low cost carriers at the Airport including Air Tran, ATA, Frontier, Spirit, Sun Country and US Airways. 

“Virgin America would likely fill one or more of the gates left empty by Delta Air Lines’ reduction of service in Terminal E,” said Lopano.