Virgin America Launches Non-Stop Flight Between JFK and Palm Springs

Virgin Group Founder Sir Richard Branson and Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet pose in front of a Virgin America Airbus A319 aircraft at Palm Springs International Airport after Virgin America’s first flight to Palm Springs from San Francisco in December 2011.

Virgin America today announces that it is bringing more of its upscale, low-fare flights to Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) from both San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).

Just in time for winter getaways, the airline is expanding its footprint at PSP, with a new 2012-2013 seasonal flight schedule that will include a new weekly Saturday nonstop flight from JFK to PSP – the only nonstop flight offered from the New York City area to Palm Springs. The new nonstop flight will add to Virgin America’s seasonal daily connecting flight schedule from JFK to PSP and its seasonal daily nonstop schedule from SFO to PSP. Tickets are on sale as of today at www.virginamerica.com and 1-877-FLY-VIRGIN.* Fares start from $79** SFO-PSP and introductory fares from $149** JFK-PSP.

“Since entering these Palm Springs markets, we’ve seen strong demand for our unique flight service. We’re pleased to be expanding in the market and offering a new nonstop option for travelers coming from New York to the desert this winter,” said John MacLeod, Senior Vice President of Planning and Sales at Virgin America. “With service that continues to sweep the travel awards, touch-screen entertainment at every seat and new aircraft that look like nothing else in the domestic skies, we think our flights are a great fit for the region. We’re thankful for the partnership and support of the airport, Mayor and tourism community in welcoming our new service and helping us grow.”

“Virgin America’s upscale flight service is a perfect match for travelers visiting our region, and we’re pleased to see the airline spread its wings and expand here. The new JFK service will be the only nonstop flight to the Northeast from PSP. Virgin America’s decision to grow its presence here is a testament to the appeal of our region as a global destination and the strength of our local tourism economy,” said Palm Springs Mayor Steve Pougnet.

“We’re thrilled to see Virgin America expand its award-winning service in our region. Virgin America’s fresh approach to travel is obviously striking a chord with travelers headed to and from the Coachella Valley,” said Scott White, President and CEO of Greater Palm Springs CVB. “Virgin America’s added commitment to our region will help lower fares and improve service in our market, allowing more travelers to enjoy all that our dynamic region has to offer.”

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