Florida, your time has come. This morning, Travel & Leisure’s favorite domestic carrier announced that it was commencing service to Ft. Lauderdale, FL later this year. Beginning November 18, the beach city will offer two flights daily to Los Angeles and San Francisco respectively, with connections onward to Seattle, Orange County, San Diego and Vegas.
Logistically, expansion into Florida marks the first foray out of the “Northeast to West Coast” formula that has prevailed for so long — but it suits Virgin America‘s style well. Ft Lauderdale is one of the trendiest, most active cities in the south, a perfect compliment to VA’s model.
Further competition in the saturated south Florida market will also be good for travelers. As Virgin tries to woo away passengers from the legacy carriers in the area, prices will surely drop and promotion will be heavy in the area.
Tickets are already available on virginamerica.com starting at $99 one way. All aircraft are fitted with seatback entertainment, wifi and the legendary mood-lighting. Let the competition begin!