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Virgin America
Rating Details »
Neighborhood: JFK Airport
JFK International Airport
Jamaica, NY 11430
(718) 751-4005
JFK International Airport
Jamaica, NY 11430
(718) 751-4005
- Nearest Transit:
-
Terminal 7 (AIRTrain)
59 reviews for Virgin America
Whomever rate Virgin America less than 5 star should simply don't fly. Take the bus.
I took VA over the weekend LA to NY round trip for $235 and there is absolutely no way I would choose to fly any other airline within US.
Beside the latest technology, WiFi, full blast Internet access @ 37000 ft, 110 volt power at your seat, order food, drink via entertainment system and on top everything, both ways, we landed one hour earlier than schedule. A whooping 4:30 min flight each way.
So for all you Yelpers out there, ask yourself this, is it worth-ed to take South West, US Airways or Jet Blue?
You know what, it was just OKAY. My first time flying on this airline -- from Vegas to NYC -- and there was nothing about it that would make me choose it over another airline next time. Yes, the lighting is definitely a nice touch. But here's the thing -- the seats have these really hard backs, these shells, like turtles or something. And they're big. So when the person in front of you reclines, you have this big hard thing pressing down on you. During my flight, they were BLASTING the a/c. It was totally freezing in there. A few people complained and they turned it down, but it was still rather unpleasant.
Yes, it's awesome that there's wi-fi on the plane but it costs 13 bucks! I was like, no, thanks, I'll wait until we land. I did like that the tv clicker was basically a little remote that you could pull out of the arm-rest.
The flight attendants were very sweet, though, (and cute, I have to add) much sweeter than on Jet Blue or Delta, for example. Oh, I should also add the bathrooms seemed bigger than standard, and definitely cleaner.
One word: wifi
*hallelujah!*
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12/22/2008
They seem to be on time. Nice to have an outlet to charge gadgets in your seat. The coach seats are… Read more »
Branson does it again. He sure knows how to run a biz. It's no wonder why he's amongst the world's billionaires. Stellar service, low pricing and great video entertainment makes for a pleasurable ride above the clouds. Eye rub you!
Good leg room in seats, but does everything come w/ a price tag?
Luggage check-in: $15 per bag
Headset: $2.99
WIFI: $6-$13
Snack: $3-$6
Food: $6-$10
TV&Movies: $1-$8 (per show)
Yes, its cool that you *CAN* do a lot of things from the RED system, but almost everything comes with a price. Besides the cool lighting system (pink and purple), decent music, and a fun safety video in the beginning of the flight, I would rather go with Jet-Blue the next time I fly. At least I don't have to pay for things like movies.
I played Doom for a good couple of hours during my flight from JFK to SFO. How effing cool is that?
Taking a few breaks from my self indulgent trip down memory lane, I reflected on the perks that Virgin America offers the travel hardened veteran such as myself:
1. Flight attendants are a throw-back to the golden days of flying. These attendants are young, slim, and quite attractive, which is a far cry from the usual flying heifer that you'll encounter on any of the legacy carriers.
2. Despite not sitting in first/business class, the seats are quite comfortable. Just enough leg room, plush leather appointments, and club-like neon lighting makes for positive ergonomics and aesthetics.
3. Great selection of audio/visual entertainment options. My trans-continental flight breezed by, as I jammed out to Mozart's Magic Flute concerto, 'The Producers' score, and re-runs of BBC-A's 'Kitchen Nightmares'.
4. Intuitive and fun to use food/beverage ordering system. At any point in the flight, if you're feeling hungry or thirsty, a few taps on the touchscreen and a credit card swipe later, you're sipping on a cocktail, or snacking on a surprisingly tasty plate of hummus, baba ganoush, and Stacy's pita chips.
5. The icing on the proverbial cake; my checked luggage arrived when I did. Huzzah!
I love and appreciate the unlimited supply of water bottles.
What?!
No lines at JFK at 1030am on a Saturday morning?
What?!
No asshole airport employees?
What?!
I seriously have to pay $15 bucks even for my first checked bag? WEAKSAUCE.
WHAT?!
I get to walk through Terminal 4 and glance at all the pretty, shiny, ridiculous items that I can potentially buy before getting to the security checkpoint? Because this nonsmoker seriously wanted to buy a gigantic box of Marlboro Lights for 134 bucks (1000 cigarettes!)- UM NO.
Once at the security checkpoint I was then cut in line probably about 5 times by what I eventually found out was my entire flight crew. How about you wait in line like the rest of us??? Haven't you ever heard of the ancient proverb: "No cuts, no buts, no coconuts?" YEESH.
Once on the plane, I felt like I was in what I imagined what an overly expensive club in Meatpacking would look like. Purple neon lights, cheapy, plastic chair frames with black leather, techno-ey music playing over the loud speaker.
Yes, there is in-flight WI-FI, yes, the planes are shiny and brand new feeling and yes you can order mediocre food and beverages all flight long on your personal computer screen right in front of you. But you also have to pay for EVERY single movie (when Delta provides at least 5-6 free ones), VA does NOT even provide free pretzels or peanuts for those poor folk out there like me, and I can't believe I'm about to complain about this but you have to charge everything. The one time I actually brought cash for airplane munchies...
I just feel like VA is trying to hard to be cool. They're not quite there yet in my book. But I guess they'll just keep on trying.
Things you can do while flying Virgin America:
If you want to wonder what the hell happened to John Singleton...watch Baby Boy on BET, one of many cable channels provided. Although, it certainly is comical to see Omar Gooding (of Wild and Crazy Kids fame) acting gangster.
If you can't stand commercials...watch Mamma Mia (don't really) or one of the other 24 feature films you can choose from.
If you're nostalgic for the 80s, big hair and synthesizers...throw on Jump by Van Halen, or one of the other music videos provided.
If you're hungry, but weren't bright enough to bring food on the plane...order a not terrible turkey/feta wrap or a dismal roast beef sandwich through the touch-screen in front of you.
If you're thirsty...you can order as many little bottles of spring water as you want. Order them two at a time though, to limit the amount of hatred for you the amazingly accommodating staff has to conceal.
If you're lonely...you can harass the other passengers through the in-flight chat system. Surprisingly enough, the girl in 6C was not dazzled by your smile; you had turkey/feta in your teeth. Accordingly, any mention of joining the mile-high club will result in severe embarrassment. She told the girl in 6B as well. Pick a new row.
If you want to feel badly about yourself...play Dr. Becca or Sienna K in Scrabble via Facebook (on the IN-FLIGHT WI-FI!!).
If you want to feel better about yourself...read the testimonies here: http://www.fmylife.com (on the IN-FLIGHT WI-FI!!).
If you can't wait until you get off the plane...you can write this mediocre review (on the IN-FLIGHT WI-FI!!).
Essentially, VA is doing what all airlines should aspire to do: make passengers happy. For me, the IN-FLIGHT WI-FI(!!) would be enough. But for those of you who are greedy, they've got TV, movies, music, food, drink and cheerful service. When you have to fly cross-country, these things make all the difference.
What was once just a dream, is now a beautiful reality. No my friend, I haven't finally purchased that Japanese toilet nor have I nabbed that scuba-diving job in Australia. For just $13 Virgin offers WiFi to it's passengers. Along with personal "Interactive Entertainment" showing (at a cost) TV shows...movies...Mah Jong games, groovy blue lights everywhere, and black leather seats it's really hard to beat if you absolutely must fly somewhere. Unfortunately, their scope is still a bit small but they cover SF and NY...who really cares what's in between, right? Whenever I fly on other airlines now I just get completely frustrated with the archaic TV screens dropping from the ceiling and scratchy fabric seats. Virgin's got style, baby!
Now if only that baby in the seat in front of me would just stop crying...
Wait, is this a line for a club? Who are all these young, sexy, trendy people? I hope the bouncer lets me in...
Actually, this was the feeling when preparing for my departure to SFO from JFK on Virgin America. You step foot on the plane and the lights are dimmed, silhouetted by fluorescent accent lighting and supple leather seats. The TVs are awesome and the no cash policy is awesome. I was playing Doom before the flight even took off. Then I was making a playlist of music on the touch screen TV. They have power outlets in the seats, so I could spend as much or little time watching movies and playing games on my ipod touch. I ordered an absinthe drink from the TV and BAM, there it is on my tray. Then a scotch on the rocks and BAM. Then another, and another, and... I can't believe I actually get to be on this flight for +6 hours!
This airline is what all US airlines should be modeled after. Wherever I am going, if there is a Virgin America plane traveling the same path, that is the flight for me. AND I was flying coach!
For a long (more than an hour) flight, Virgin America might be my first pick. Not only are the planes new with more comfortable seating, and not only do they have personal TVs at each chair (which is becoming the norm on newer planes) but video games?! I'm not even a big video game player - but I like the option. They have a remote control for the tv, which also doubles as the controller for the video games. They have a first person shooter game as well as games for kids like text twist, etc.
Down side is that some of the TV channels don't work, they make you pay for headsets (which most people bring their own anyways), movies are $8, and they make you purchase all food... which is a ripoff! I ended up buying a bag of chex mix - $4... highway robbery!
Another downside is that they only let you use the restrooms at the rear of the plane - reserving the restroom at the front of the plane for first class.
All in all, a good airline choice!!
I give Virgin 3.5 stars...
PROS:
-mood lighting
-comfortable seats
-yummy and semi health conscious food compared to other airlines (I had the turkey wrap--see pic)
-water bottles always available at the restroom area
-crew/pilot stays out of your hair for most of the flight
-funny safety video
CONS:
-you have to pay $8 for each movie, $2 for head sets
-the screens in front of each seat has TV, but not all of the channels are available. On some of the channels, the program "repeats"--I saw some of the same shows going to NY as I did coming back to NY.
-The games available on the touch screen are pretty lame. The only one that kept my attention was anagramarama.
-Some of the games require you to push the screen instead of using the hand held device. On my return flight, the woman behind me was playing one of those games and it was the most annoying thing ever. I felt every push, and after a few minutes I had to ask her to not push so hard.
-The "read" and "Chat" functions on the screens were not working.
I don't think that I would go out of my way to fly Virgin in the future, but if the flights are cheap, I wouldn't go out of my way to avoid it either!
I took you from SFO to Vegas last March for like $108 round trip. Hurray for your cheap early deals, cause otherwise your flights can get pretty pricey. I don't really like how they only fly out of the major airports, so I got to go all the way up to SFO if I want to fly Virgin. I like their LCD monitors in the back of the seats where you can watch movies, music videos, listen to music, chat with people on board, and I think I heard that they upgraded to giving you internet access on board now too.
I remember when I was coming back from Vegas, the LCD monitors weren't working, so they comped us all free dranks. Holl-er!
Minus 1 star for the annoying leprechaun dude on St. Patrick's day with his green beer mug when we were all trying to fly back in peace.
I also found it weird that Virgin America is located on the International Flights Terminal Level at SFO, so my friend who picked me up had to bust a circle up a level when she came to pick me up, since I thought it'd be on the Domestic Terminal Level.
Virgin Air - introducer of new musics? Apparently.
I made an entire playlist for a trip from SF to NY. Bands I'd never heard of, groups I'd been recommended but never listened to, singers who I was embarrassed to listen to but could in the safety of my non-judgemental seat... I listened to it all. Because it was there for me.
What else was there for me?
A veggie platter with hummus for gnoshing mid-flight (ordered via the push of a button on the screen), tv (and free movies due to a glitch in their programming - sweeet) on my own personal screen, chatting with newfound friends in other seats...
And the key to making an airline great: EXCELLENT service. Seriously - speedy service with a smile could be their motto.
Virgin Air, I scoffed at your reputation once, never again. You won me over with everything - especially your mood lighting. yum.
cheap, new, clean, easy = 5 stars for an airline. i'm sure i'm one of the last people to fly virgin but have you guys noticed the safety video they play? HILARIOUS. i think its the first time i actually paid attention to a safety message and i watched it completely on both legs of my trip.
oh, and the power outlets between each seat. amazing when you're flying cross country.
and that anagram game they have on their personal TVs? damn, i feel sorry for the person's head in front of my frantically pushing fingers....
I like Richard Branson. A lot. There aren't many other plutocrats these days who are so consistently hilarious. Call it an unfortunate sign of the times, but most of our richest crazies seem to be run-of-the-mill Ayn Rand fans with standard issue god-complexes and political aspirations. Scary, sure; but also awfully predictable (not to mention dull). The world needs a few more good old-fashioned eccentric billionaires to counteract all that dour, world-wrecking self-importance. Branson certainly makes a solid effort (with his always open-collars and his ridiculous smirk).
I like that he attacked Stephen Colbert with a glass of water. I like that he introduced a random naked man in his outdoor shower as an 'employee' on an episode of MTV Cribs. I like that he crossed the Atlantic Ocean twice; once in a hot air balloon and once in a sail boat. He's basically a pince-nez and an ascot away from being Phileas Fogg.
I even like the fact that's he built an airline that's so over branded and focus-grouped hip that it's like flying inside an iPod commercial. So why did I give it only three stars? Because it's all in service of a lost cause. Even purple neon and a Jamie Hewlett-animated welcome video can't make a red eye flight from San Francisco pleasant.
P.S. This is especially true when you're sitting two seats away from a too-chatty woman with a Queens' accent, an art history degree and a woefully over-inflated sense of her own self-worth.
I would have given VA 5 stars but after having flown now a few times on the cross country routes (SFO and LAX to JFK) and having the "RED" entertainment system not work properly on 5 out of 6 flights really is a bummer. I can only watch so much of current tv for 4-5 hours.
Otherwise, everything is great. The fact that you can book one way tickets with basically paying half the round trip price is super nice. I also really enjoy the look and feel of the new planes. Being a big guy, I will never like anything other than a 1st class seat, but I make due with the coach seats as the personal budget limits such an extravagant lifestyle. The staff is superfriendly and usually very accomodating.
The fact that you can just swipe your card and your order of a snack a beverage and a movie are all delivered almost instantly is great. However, I find paying for internet service to be a complete rip off so I just enjoy the flight, but it is available for a charge (like everything else on airlines these days). So if you have to get work done, it is available or if you want to make a dinner reservation from 32,000 feet before you land at your destination that is pretty cool as well or even catch up on your YELPing.
Looking forward to flying again soon on Virgin America. Hope they start with more routes from JFK soon.
Virgin America, Please fly me everywhere in America and save me from all the other crap domestic airlines (well, jetBlue is okay).
I fly quite a bit and even though the first time I flew on Virgin America (LAX-JFK) I was pretty hungover, I had a great flight.
Alright, it is flying. You still have security, delays, etc.. It's a pain in the ass. However, this airline really makes it easier. From the fresh flowers while you wait to check in for your flight to the awesome cabin on the plane.
The RED system is so cool as well. You have satelite tv, 1000's of mp3's, video games (played DOOM for a bit) and the coolest, the order from your seat feature. If you want a coke, jack and coke, sandwich or whatever, you just tap your screen, order it, swipe your card (if its a pay item, alcohol food) and quickly one of the attendants brings it to you. Speaking on attendants, and I know this really isn't something I should probably rate them on (but I'm going to), one was super hot.. so call me a pig, but points for them!
When all is said and done it was a 5 or so hour flight that took the pain out of flying. I will go out of my way to fly them whenever I can and really hope the add more destinations in the very near future.
08.08.08:
Happy 1 year anniversary, you sexy thang! I took the red eye flight to NYC today, and thankfully we arrived on time even though we took off late. A bit disappointed that there was no disco party with champagne flowing on the flight to celebrate their big day, but happy to have gotten some beauty rest, because we're going to do it up big in the Big Apple tonight!
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11/2/2007
It being my first trip to NYC, it was quite apropos that I flew there via Virgin America. Yes, my NY… Read more »
Oh, hooray, to be back in New York again! The lights, the city, the action -- I love it all, and Virgin makes it so easy to get here. And $300 for a round trip ticket? Such a bargain.
I think all of the hype around Virgin is mostly true. Soft purple lights and meditation music welcome you aboard, and our plane seemed new, with modern white walls and nice clean seats. Plus the TV screen kept me entertained for hours on end with movies, tv shows on demand and games.
Oh, and yes, people CAN invite you to "chat" from another seat. I straightened up excitedly when I got an invitation from seat 21A. I pretended to walk to the restroom and stealthily snuck a look to confirm that the cute boy who was messaging me was actually cute. He was 13 years old. A virgin? How fitting.
Wanted to catch a earlier flight to SFO. The dude behind the counter went out of his way to get us on that flight. The security and people at the checkpoints where enjoying us running to the gate. They had fun with it.
I enjoyed the flight to NYC from SF. had a couple problems with the TV in front of me but other than that, it was fun to play games and listen to music.
I always got my drink when I punched in what I wanted. the attendants were very nice.
Looking forward to flying Virgin to Seattle in a month!
Now..I know Sir Richard Branson is working hard to get Virgin America up and running to his expectations. BUT it seems like he totally missed the JFK hub. Because I wasn't impressed with flying OUT of JFK.
Yes you still have the envy of all other airline ticket and self check-in counter. BUT why should I drag my own luggage to the luggage drop off area? I know I sound all L.A. and lazy but it's a bit tacky to drag your bag after checking in. -1 Star
Secondly. The Gate which VA has is pretty damn sorry. Yes. There's still the cool counter. But really I've flown out of nicer terminals in third world countries. I felt dirty and battered just waiting to get on my flight. -1 Star
Other than this grip. I only hope my experience will be as nice as my flight out of LAX http://www.yelp.com/bi... . I dearly hope the next time I fly out of JFK I'll have a pleasant experience.
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Rye's Notes:
*One of the saddest Gate for Virgin America
I enjoy flying Virgin America as their target customers are usually younger, thus slimmer. I never have to suffer from sitting next to a chunky passenger.
Do not book row 7, or any row that is in front of the emergency isle. You cannot push the seat back.
The music video selection is rubbish.
I have one CA passenger wearing pajama pants. He was over 20 of age. It was gross.
Virgin Atlantic is better. I felt that they dumb down the graphics for the domestic American audiences.
3.5 stars
Not bad. They get three stars just because I was able to fly home to L.A. for $300 non stop - niice! =) .5 stars just for the cool music you hear when you walk into the lavatory. Seriously, it's like you're in a club.
Why didn't I just give it four stars? [It might be sparking your curiosity]. Well, on my flight back to NYC the tv systems weren't working and the flight attendants weren't as friendly as the trip to L.A. Also, there isn't much leg room and I don't like the fact there are no FREE snacks only drinks. Geez, not even peanuts.
I did like the fact though one the way to L.A. we were 45 mins early. Niice!! In addition, the flight attendants were much nicer. Not so on the way back to NYC.
I'll definitely take this plane again, but only if I could get a great deal.
You know you're on different kind of airline when the pilot, welcoming you to the flight (standing in front of the cabin wearing all black), says that he doesn't like making announcements during the flight because it interrupts the entertainment system. As a frequent "guest" of some of the legacy US airlines, I can't tell you how many times I've been awoken or interrupted to a blaring announcement that we're flying over Fargo, ND or to point out that it's -40 at our current cruising altitude of 32,000 ft. And I care why?
I have to say one of the most brilliant moves VA may have made was to set up their base camp in the international terminal of SFO. I've been traveling to SFO from SEA for the last couple of months and last week to get a few extra points (and remind myself that I am a whore), I flew AlaskaAir. As airlines go, Alaska is better than most, but if I didn't feel dirty enough, spending an hour and half in SFO's terminal one brought me back to the reality of US air travel.
Footnote: I did switch back to VA for this week's trip and even with screaming children directly behind me on both flights no doubt, I am still submitting this review. Thank you RED.
So on my recent JFK-SFO trip, I decided to try an experiment. Prices here are for one-way tickets during peak holiday season:
OAK-JFK on Jetblue $159 + $30 upgrade to premium seating
JFK-SFO on Virgin $139 + $100 upgrade to Main Cabin Select (MCS)
The review here is for the Virgin America segment.
Coming back, I decided to upgrade to MCS. That means exit/bulk row, and you end up in this awkward dilemma where you are neither (g-l-a-m-o-r-o-u-s) First Class nor the plebeian economy. Perks of MCS: priority boarding with the First Class, so you can hum Fergie's song in your head about poppin' champagne until you are promptly ushered to the Main Cabin, designated overhead space, free plastic headphones ($2 value), 38" legroom, and all the premium movies, TV, alcohol drinks, snacks/meals you could want on the RED economy menu.
In retrospect, the upgrade was worth it. On a 6-hour flight, I need all the legroom I can get, which was fabulous compared to the 32" pitch in regular seating. Plus, the seats recline more than normal, so economy is not for the claustrophobic. I also started but didn't finish 4 different movies, 5 premium TV shows, and ordered 3 meals (hummus with crudites, fruit and cheese plate, cereal with berries). All of this made the long-haul flight (sometimes at an agonizingly slow 400mph) go by quickly.
Word of advice: fly Virgin America west-bound.
Best experience I have had flying by far! Usually I am very stressed when flying especially getting to the airport on time, flight delays, long lines at the ticket counter and security checkpoints. This time I arrived in very good time and didnt have to wait at all for checking in using their self-check in machine. I had time to enjoy the mini mall at JFK. It was great to relax and go shopping. After I went through the security gate to terminal four which did not have much food...kind of disappointing. The airplane was a little late landing and boarding so we took off 30 min after departure time but we somehow still made it 30 min early to LAX. Very rare when you actually arrive before arrival time on airlines these days. Even better my luggage was the first one on the carousel...that was definitely a first!
The plane was actually a lot smaller than most planes that I have been on that are ginormous. The interior was beautiful with modern sleek curves, transparent dividers, and blue and red glow lighting. The seats were new black leather seats with moldable headrests and removable tv remote and qwerty keyboard on the other side. The red system is a step above the personal tv that other airlines have as you can chose what you want to watch and listen. The tv system was down the day I fly so I was not so happy about that. But otherwise there were a free selection of music videos and artists that you can create playlists from. I thoroughly enjoyed navigating the system, creating a playlist for me to listen to and purchasing on demand "premium tv" ($1) and movies ($7).
I will definitely try to fly virgin america as MUCH as possible in the future especially when flying from NYC to LA!!!!
getting on the plane, the air hostess winks at us to let us know how cool we are for flying VA.
when was the last time YOU felt anything close to COOL on a plane? (assuming you don't have a hot friend with a Cessna)
i am now yelp*ing in the skies over ohio, or indiana... let's check the map, where am i? oh, about to enter illinois, just over danville... Hellooooo danville illinois!
now i am over champaign: 36206 feet, 519 mph. 1826 miles to go -69f
and i'm working by the way, impressing the boss, and clearing my paperwork out of my PC, so i can have a weekend. i just spent an hour
and i just ate edible food. pretty good. indian styled food. something i might have paid for, and that i might just look up a recipe for. ever google the food on AAL?
and I am carrying on an e-mail conversation with Colleen S, who is planning a vacation for us. I miss Colleen S, and after a a long assed day of flying, e-mailed details of Roxy's poop are welcome.
and when that is over, i can zone out on some inflight entertainment.
for the same $, i could have suffered across the USof A on UAL, where i am a mile-god, and would have upgraded for free and still have felt like i was flying some cattle truck to argentina.
i travel for work, but these days "travel" feels like "slog". i slog to new york, or boston, or california. but this evening, i am jetting.
this is the jetset we have all been dreaming of!.
I really wanted to love Virgin America. I truly did. I babbled on about it nonstop to my friends since they opened and even chose San Francisco as my last trip destination JUST so I could finally fly with them. And while things were generally ok, I wasn't really wowed like I originally thought I would be.
I understand their whole motto about paying for everything and I liked the idea of being able to order drinks and things from your seat and I thought I'd be cool with it, even bringing my own snacks leaving because I'm a cheapass. But on the way back I didn't bring food and that's when it occurred to me: it really sucks being on a 6 hour flight and not even getting one lousy cookie for free.
I've also never in my life stepped foot onto a plane and not had the flight attendants or pilot acknowledge my presence (or the presence of the people in front of/behind me, so it wasn't because I smelled bad or something). Not that I think I'm an important person who needs them to bow down and kiss my feet when I arrive, but I always like to say hello when I walk in and see the people who basically have my life in their hands for the next few hours and then thank them when I leave and they always reciprocate with the passengers. These people seemed like they could care less, the only one I saw was turned around fluffing a pillow. They weren't outright rude, just... indifferent, I guess? Too cool for school?
I was excited for the hip mood lighting, mostly because I've stayed in a Qbic hotel where they also have that and it was dorky cool. Somehow on the plane, the novelty wore off after 2 minutes and I forgot it was there.
I seemed to have the all Roseanne, all the time channel on. The worst part was they were all the newer unfunny episodes. My friend, however, was completely enthralled by a National Geographic show about the history of bras.
Basically I wouldn't go out of my way to fly VA in the future, but if they were the cheapest/easiest option I wouldn't be against using them.
Oh and passengers: every now and then, go into the chatroom. It's pretty lame that in 6 hours no one ever went in there save for me and my friend sitting next to me. Sheesh! At the very least, you can annoyingly ask A/S/L?? to other people and have a good laugh pretending you're in an AOL chatroom circa 1997.
Should the papal plane carrying Pope Benedict be scheduled to fly within hours of your commercial flight, do unroll that sleeping bag and get comfortable because you're not going anywhere anytime soon.
Do not pass GO.
A really good idea with one fatal flaw. We'll get to that later. As everyone has said, VA tries to create an "experience" of the flying, and for that they get major props. Particularly in consistency of design - everything from the check in counters to the bathroom doors are a sleek, neon white. Chill, loungey house music plays while you board, etc. Their RED system thing works great - personally i love that you can order food, tv, a movie whenever you want (and the food is actually good!). Huge bonus points for plugs at the seats too (if only airlines could figure out w-fi - why is that so hard!?) and for inexpensive cross country flights.
But here's the flaw: when you replace your service people with machines, but you still have employ the service people for "safety reasons" it makes for some very bitchy service people. These flight attendants were downright snarky bordering on nasty. I won't outline each of the instances that made me go "Really?", but suffice it to say, on my flight, these guys weren't there to ensure I had an enjoyable flight - merely to toss me a sandwich and a bag of chips after I'd swiped my credit card. I guess this is the future, huh?
3.5 stars.
Ugh. I almost want to hate this airline. Things pissed me off about it, but look what I have to compare it to. I am an airline/airplane/aviation geek, so I know about airplanes and airlines...and I was really looking forward to flying on Virgin America, even before most normal people knew about it.
I am just going to do a pro/con list, rather than ramble on about the cool and not so cool things that I experienced.
Also, I tried to upgrade to First Class for DAYS before my red-eye back home, with no success. Next time I am absolutely eating that extra cost - those people looked WAY HAPPIER.
PROS:
*RED. I loved Red. I really liked being able to create my own playlist and ordering food/drinks without having to get the attention of a flight attendant (especially because this wasn't easy...see below).
*NOVELTY. No matter how "overly cool" everything about this airline is, you must admit, it's really freaking cool. I love it. You love it.
*EASE. Boarding was a breeze. Once I was through security (again, more on that later) I felt like I was in a different airport. At least on my 2 flights, VA's operations seemed very smooth and seamless.
*GOOGLE MAPS. Even cooler than jetBlue's nav system.
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CONS:
*OUT-OF-STOCK. I ordered a turkey wrap as soon as we took off on my flight to LA. I paid for it. I was then informed they were "all out" of them, even though I had just overheard that they were saving them for the First Class customers in case they wanted them. Heyyyyy!
*CLAUSTROPHOBIA. It seemed like some of the seats reclined further than others. When the person in front of me reclined, I honestly felt like they were laying in my lap and I couldn't move. It seriously gave me anxiety.
*OUTLETS? None of the outlets I had at my seats actually functioned. I had to have a flight attendant take my iPod to be charged, which totally defeated the purpose.
*JFK OPERATIONS. I HATE that Virgin America operates out of terminal 4. I had to deal with the International security lines for my domestic flight. SO annoying.
*TOUCH SCREENS+CHILDREN/INCONSIDERATE PEOPLE. Yeah, the touch screens are cool, but when you have 5 year olds or "Mr. Oooh, this is so cool!" behind you, the tapping/punching gets really annoying. On my outbound flight, I turned around before we even pushed back from the gate to stare down the kids behind me and tell their mother that the "hitting needs to stop RIGHT NOW."
*SLOW SERVICE. Helllllo, flight attendants, where are you? Please stop giggling and socializing in the galley, and bring me my water.
I heard so much about Virgin America and was expecting a better airlines. Well, I was wrong.
2 stars for getting to our destination early and the ability to order drinks anytime.
Otherwise, the seats weren't that comfortable. The seats were short and I'm only 5'2" and they didn't lean back very much. The leg room was just like other airlines.
On the way to New York, most of the channels didn't work on the tv, the remote didn't work, so I couldn't try out the games.
The attendants were rude to some of the passengers. When there was a bit of turbulence, the seat belt light went on and stayed on even when the turbulence stopped, so no one was able to go to the restroom and if you did the attendants would say, "You need to seat down!" I ignored her and went to the restroom.
Other poor people would wait till the seat belt light went off and then you would see them all dashing for the restrooms.
No snacks and the food was mediocre for $8 to $10 a sandwich.
Now that they are charging for the 1st suitcase like everyone else, I might as well go back to the other airlines.
Who lights their main cabin in PURPLE??!?
Comfy leather chairs, a sleek entertainment system, outlets for my gadgets, seat-to-seat chat (yes, even in the air you can start a chatroom), affordable tickets, a witty introduction video, and mood lighting (seriously, though, who lights their main cabin shades of pink and purple? The only things missing were a rainbow and a unicorn and this would have been a Lisa Frank airline).
Flying out of any other airport is great but unfortunately Virgin America has a kind of really crappy spot in JFK which makes it extra-not-awesome when you're in a rush to get back to the city.
The counter staff has always been nice (courteous, and well, present, since I've never actually had to interact with them besides 'hello'), but the flight attendants need to move out of LA. They've got that budding movie star thing going on and you can tell when a person's faking being nice.
Don't matter; just tune them out with your TV.
If you're expecting to watch TV, lower those expectations.
I've flown 5 legs on Virgin America in the past month (JFK to LAS to SFO, etc..) and on all of them the free satellite TV worked sporadically and most often not at all. Makes you want to buy those $8 movies (which I did) wink wink, nod nod.
Everything else was better than average and the best I've experiecned outside of first class international.
JetBlue has given me consistently effective satellite which in my book is more important than Virgin America's good food and more comfortable seats.
I just got back from a weekend trip to Las Vegas, flying from JFK to McCarran. First of all, I got a great deal- only $240 round trip!
Here is the breakdown:
Service: Both of my flights were on time, and the people working at the gates were super cheerful. They had some guy come to the waiting area at the gate in JFK to greet us all and ask if we had any questions. The flight attendants were nice, but not extremely efficient--especially on my flight back. They never came around before we started descent to collect garbage, so I sat for the last hour or so with the wrapper from my sandwich, balled up napkins, and 2 water bottles in my hands.
Technology: Their interactive tv/movie/video game system, which they call "Red" is the highlight of the the experience. You can choose from about 20 or so regular cable channels for free, premium tv that includes HBO shows for a few dollars, movies for about $7 or $8, and free games. (I quickly became addicted to the anagram one.) They offer free wi-fi as well, and I believe you can chat with other passengers, although I didn't try that one.
Food & Drink: Red also allows you to order drinks and snacks, swiping your credit card for anything you like. The food selections were fresh and healthy compared to those at most airlines, and included a very satisfying (and not soggy) roast beef sandwich on whole wheat with havarti cheese, lettuce, and fresh tomato that I enjoyed for dinner on my way back for $9.00, with 2 Ghirardelli chocolates for dessert. On the way there I tried the turkey feta wrap, which was fresh, but too salty. It included feta cheese, a garlic-herb spread, and deli turkey, which was just salt overkill. They also offered a fruit & cheese plate, snacks like cookies or chips, alcoholic beverages including mixed drinks such as mojitos or bloody marys, or standard free refreshments such as bottled water and soda. A few minutes after checkout a cheerful flight attendant delievered my selections to me in the comfort of my seat. Speaking of...
Seats: Although the legroom is pretty good, the seats only recline about a half-inch. I couldn't even use my travel neck pillow, because my seat was so far forward that it would have caused me to hunch over. I do like that they're leather; it makes you feel like you're not sitting on something that has years-old stains ingrained in the fabric.
Bathrooms: Super clean and fresh smelling. The toilet is also regular-sized, so you don't feel like you're sitting in a mini port-a-potty.
Atmosphere: Young and trendy. The plane has a purple glow that combines with the red glow of the tv sets. The flight attendants were wearing modern-looking red pullovers over their white shirts and black pants. I actually heard a fellow passenger say to one of them- "You guys have the BEST outfits."
I came off both flights feeling refreshed and relaxed, so it was a great experience overall.
I have a very delayed flight fro LAX to JFK then they lost my bags. It's been three months I have received no compensation. Their customer service has been the worst!!!!
I will never fly this airline again.
Rating: 3.5*'s
It's definitely cool and the personal entertainment system is AWESOME..when it's WORKING that is! I enjoyed their music selection and totally used it during my recent trip to SF.
The seats are comfy and the leg room is not bad. The neon purple lights and white interior is sleek and chic and for a moment, I actually considered switching my loyalty to VA from JetBlue. Of course this thought was fleeting when I had to wait for WAY TOO LONG to get my baggage upon arrival to JFK.
The crew going to SF was efficient, polite and always checking on hte passengers. Unfortunately, the crew going back to JFK barely moved and only came around ONCE to offer drinks. They do need to work out the kinks when it comes to service.
They REALLY need to work on their baggage sitch because they had multiple flights baggage all going to ONE CAROUSEL! WTF?! There were a total of 4 DIFFERENT flights, mine being one of the 4, going to ONE carousel which was PURE CHAOS!
In summary, I'd fly VA again if the price is right!
