First read is on us.

Subscribe today to keep up with the latest travel industry news.

Virgin America starting daily “nerdbird” flights from LAX to Silicon Valley


Skift Take

Southwest, American, Alaska and United already fly from LAX to SJC, so while VA's tech creds are impeccable, that alone may not be enough in face of competition.

Upstart carrier Virgin America will offer daily service to Los Angeles from Mineta San Jose International Airport, starting May 1, with tickets on sale February 5.

The fast-growing domestic carrier, which has earned a reputation for low fares and innovative amenities such as in-flight Wi-Fi service, plans to offer four daily non-stop flights to Los Angeles while hoping “to get a better feel for the San Jose market,” CEO David Cush said in an interview.

Representatives of the city and Silicon Valley’s tech industry, who have campaigned to bring more carriers to the underutilized airport, are hoping the new flights are a first step that will lead to the airline offering service to additional cities from SJC.

Up Next

Hotels

Hyatt Exec Explains Soft Brand Strategy With Boutique Luxury Hotels

One of Hyatt's many business models is to take indie luxury hotels that pride themselves on being boutique-y, providing them the benefits of Hyatt (distribution! marketing! operational support!) and then downplaying any sign of corporate involvement in the eyes of guests. So far, it's working.