This was published 14 years ago
Flight test: Virgin America economy class
'Totally psyched' ... Virgin America has been rated the country's best domestic airline.
Virgin America Airbus A319.
Los Angeles to Fort Lauderdale.
Economy, seat 14B.
3-3.
33-inch seat pitch, 19-inch width.
One carry-on item of up to 7¼ kilograms, plus one personal item such as laptop or briefcase. Checked luggage costs $US20 ($22) per item, including the first item of up to 31 kilograms. Additional items must be less than 22 kilograms or a $US50 charge applies.
Four hours, 45 minutes. On time.
None at LAX.
The leather seats were comfortable enough, with room for me and my two neighbours to work on our laptops without banging elbows.
Like new. Virgin America has been flying for two years with a new fleet of Airbuses.
Seat-back screens with 33 current-release and foreign films available for $US8 each. Good selection of TV shows for $US2 each. Neither are really worth buying considering 24 live satellite TV channels are available for free. Power supply for electronic devices under seat. During the holiday season, the airline had a free on-board wireless internet promotion (normally $US12.95).
Fairly standard low-cost airline fare available to buy at any time. Sandwiches $US9-10. Chips, cookies $US3. Soft drinks free.
A national survey recently rated Virgin America the country's best for domestic flights and, given the poor reputation of US airlines, it's easy to understand why. In typical Virgin fashion, the crew are friendly and fun. The pilot announces before the flight that the crew is "totally psyched" to be flying us and promises "the best flight you've ever had".
Virgin America flies direct from LA to Fort Lauderdale twice daily. See www.virginamerica.com.
Tested by Craig Platt, who flew courtesy of Royal Caribbean Cruises.
Sign up for the Traveller newsletter
The latest travel news, tips and inspiration delivered to your inbox. Sign up now.