A discussion about the airline industry, airline employees, and all things related

Sir Richard Branson's name has been in the paper a lot, especially after his company, Virgin Atlantic announced they would returning to the windy city after leaving in 2001.  Virgin Atlantic will offer daily nonstop service between London Heathrow and O’Hare International Airport starting next year. 

There is already three airlines that fly out of Chicago O'Hare to London Heathrow, American Airlines, United Airlines and British Airways.  VA believes there is enough traffic siting that the Chicago-Heathrow is the second busiest business class right after NYC-London route between the countries.  

While American and United have the greatest market share among airlines flying from Chicago to London, Branson insists there's room for Virgin Atlantic. Among the perks it offers: inflight bars where passengers can mingle, onboard beauticians and entertainment systems that economy-class travelers "can stop when you go to the loo," Branson said.

Now the interesting thing is that Virgin America, which has no ties to Virgin Atlantic, has announced a few cities they want to serve, pending DOT approval.  Virgin America's first route is from San Francisco to New York-round trip. But other cities might include Seattle, Portland, Los Angeles, San Diego, Phoenix, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, Denver, St. Louis, Minneapolis, Chicago, Detroit, Indianapolis, Dallas, Austin, Houston, New Orleans, Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, Miami, Orlando, Atlanta, Washington, Baltimore, Philadelphia and Boston.  Check their site for more details. 

Branson is also pushing O'Hare officials to adopt a policy to help the enviornment become cleaner by using electric tugs at the gates that could cute emissions by up to 18%.   

Chicago Tribune 

Justin, one of the readers corrected me, there are three carriers, BA, AA, and UA.  Also he tells me that the Virgin London-Chicago flight is named "The High Riser."  Thanks Justin.