Intends To File For Access To Chi-Town

California-based low-cost airline Virgin American announced Monday it will seek government approval to serve Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Chicago would be the eighth city in the airline's network, since Virgin entered the US market in August 2007.

"Chicago is one of the nation's top travel markets, a world-class city and a perfect fit for our innovative, low-fare service," said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. "We want to bring Chicago travelers a better choice, with attractive fares and brand new planes that offer a unique, upscale flying experience -- from leather seats to individual video touch-screens at every seatback."

Virgin America plans to file an application later this week with the Federal Aviation Administration to serve ORD under the existing demand management rules at the airport. The carrier notes legacy airlines represent 99 percent of the domestic departures at O'Hare, with low-cost airlines only representing one percent -- and Virgin America intends to tip those scales.

"When more airlines compete, consumers win with lower fares and better service. We think that savvy Chicago travelers will find our high-value, low-fare service a breath of fresh air," Cush added. "The Mayor, airport and City have shown tremendous vision by investing in O'Hare's future, with long-term investments, such as the new runway coming online this fall that will expand and modernize one of the world's busiest travel hubs. We want to be part of O'Hare's future."

Virgin America hopes to fly from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to ORD later this year.

FMI: www.virginamerica.com