With intentions to visit Portland in the near future, I couldn’t have been more thrilled to get the news yesterday that my favorite airline will soon be bringing its fun, low-fare, stylish airline to PDX!

Virgin America announced yesterday that beginning June 5, 2012, they will be offering two daily nonstop flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and one daily nonstop flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Portland International Airport.

In honor of its newest city, Virgin America is hosting a system-wide fare sale (on now!) with PDX-LAX and PDX-SFO fares starting at just $99.*

Plus, Virgin America is asking social media fans to submit their Portland-themed plane names to grace its 50th aircraft, which enters into the airline’s rapidly growing fleet in April. The top five names will be voted on and selected by the carrier; the final winner will score two roundtrip flights on the new Portland route.


The award-winning Virgin brand is known for their outstanding guest service, custom-designed cabins with three classes of service, and touch-screen in-flight entertainment at every seat. And while frequent travelers appreciate the level of courtesy and hospitality received from booking to checking in to in-flight service, what’s most impressive is their positive impact on airlines in their service area.

At a time when most U.S. carriers have been cutting capacity, Virgin America is expanding (PDX will be their 18th destination) and bringing much-needed nonstop competition from California’s largest airports to PDX. When this happens, particularly in new markets that offer little low-fare competition, the airline has frequently seen fares drop by up to 30 percent.

“Our airline launched in 2007 because we believed travelers deserved better choices in air travel. We are excited to start new service to PDX and we hope our unique blend of low fares and inventive service will be a fresh alternative for Portland travelers,” said Virgin America President and CEO David Cush. “Although there are strong business and leisure travel ties between California and Portland, the West Coast to PDX market generally has higher fares than similar flights to Seattle and the reason is competition. We are thrilled to offer Portland travelers a different choice – in an industry often characterized by monotony.”

Tickets are available for purchase now at Virgin.com and at 1.877.FLY.VIRGIN.

About the Author: Lindsay Taub is an award-winning journalist with over a decade of experience as a writer/editor/photographer covering travel, lifestyle, culture, arts, food, health, and all facets that make life a journey. Follow her on twitter @lindsaytaub58.

2 Comments On "Virgin America Brings Service from LAX and SFO to Portland"
  1. Ben|

    this is great news for LAX and Portland. Can’t wait to hop on a Virgin Jet to PDX…

  2. erinkonrad|

    I’ve never flown Virgin America before, but have heard good things from friends. I’m usually a dedicated Jet Blue fan, but would love the opportunity to fly from LAX to San Francisco. This also sounds like a great deal. What should convince me to go Virgin? Are there benefits like Wi-Fi or spacey leg room? Thanks!

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