Follows Time At XOJET As SVP Finance And Controller

California-based low-cost airline Virgin America announced this week the appointment of Holly Nelson as the company's Chief Financial Officer.

Nelson joins Virgin America in April, and will oversee the carrier's financial operations, including treasury, tax, financial planning and analysis, accounting, financial reporting, budgets, procurement and fleet planning. Airline officials say Nelson brings 23 years of financial experience in the commercial aviation sector to the Virgin America team.

"Holly brings an invaluable depth of financial expertise, specifically with growing start-up airlines. We're pleased to welcome Holly to the team, and know that with her experience she will play a critical role in driving continued cost-efficiencies and strong revenue performance, as we grow the company and expand our innovative, low-fare service," said David Cush, President and Chief Executive Officer of Virgin America.

Nelson most recently served as Senior Vice President Finance and Controller at XOJET, Inc. Nelson also served as Senior Vice President, Controller and Chief Accounting Officer at JetBlue Airways. In her six years at JetBlue, Nelson was instrumental in taking the airline into the public markets and contributing to its successful growth. Nelson has also held senior positions with Northwest Airlines, Inc., Eos Airlines, Inc., Nabisco Brands, and KPMG.

Launched in August 2007, Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington DC, Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, and Boston. The airline plans to add service to Orange County in late April.

FMI: www.virginamerica.com/