Virgin America launches first domestic lounge

SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. – This week, Virgin America, the California-based domestic airline, launches its first domestic lounge with the opening of the stylish new Virgin America Loft at Los Angeles International Airport’s (LAX) Terminal 3. Not to be confused with sister-branded airline Virgin Atlantic’s premium international Clubhouses designed for longer-haul travelers, the new Virgin America Loft will offer Virgin America’s guests a sleek and modern retreat within LAX. In keeping with the airline’s mission to reinvent the U.S. travel experience, the new Virgin America Loft was designed to offer the amenities today’s travelers demand within a space that reflects the look and feel of the airline’s next generation mood-lit aircraft and overall design aesthetic. The Virgin America Loft extends the airline’s signature cabin experience into the airport space with amenities like a cocktail bar and dining experience with a Virgin twist – including a “Lofty Libations” artisanal cocktail selection. As the only airline to offer both power outlets near every seat and in-flight WiFi on every aircraft, the Virgin America Loft is equipped with ample power sources and complimentary WiFi.

“We’re proud to unveil our first lounge space at LAX, which was designed for our growing base of loyal business and leisure travelers,” said Jim Davis, Vice President of Airports and Guest Services at Virgin America. “Elevating the journey for travelers beyond just getting from point A to Point B is what Virgin America is all about – and the Virgin America Loft at LAX extends that philosophy into the airport space.”

Access: Elevate® Gold and Elevate Silver members of Virgin America’s Elevate frequent flyer program receive a select number of complimentary day passes each year* to the Virgin America Loft and day passes can also be purchased for $40 each through online check-in, at the airport upon check-in and through the Virgin America call center at 1.877.FLY.VIRGIN (877.359.8474).** Travelers on Virgin America’s airline partners may also purchase passes to the Loft. For more details, including rules and restrictions on Virgin America Loft access see: www.virginamerica.com/vx/lax-loft. Today, the airline is also launching a “12 Days of #VXLoft Passes” giveaway on social media through December 23 – where 12 lucky people will score a free day pass to check out the new Virgin America Loft in 2013 for themselves. Travelers can follow the airline on Twitter for a chance to score a day pass to the Virgin America Loft.

Location: The Virgin America Loft is located past security at Terminal 3 of LAX on the second level – conveniently near the Virgin America gates. You can access the Virgin America Loft by taking the stairs or elevator, both located near the food court.

The Virgin America Loft was designed to create a space where travelers can relax, refresh and recharge before their flight:

RELAX: In addition to re-charging at conveniently placed power charging stations and enjoying complimentary WiFi, the Virgin America Loft provides space to disconnect, have private conversations and enjoy runway views.

REFRESH: Virgin America offers its award-winning seasonal food menu crafted using fresh locally-sourced ingredients and artisan breads in a Breakfast and Light Bite lunch and dinner selection such as a fresh fruit salad wrap, Otsu Soba noodles, and an assortment of fresh sushi as well as “Lofty Libations” – Virgin and aviation-themed cocktails like the Virgintini and the Runway Ruddy Mary – all complimentary at the Virgin America Loft.

RECHARGE: Guests will be able to enjoy a social lounge within the Virgin America Loft perfect for socializing, watching Live TV, and meeting someone new.

“Travelers seek out Virgin America for the stylish, upscale experience onboard – and we hoped to create a lounge that reflects the modern and sleek design of our planes and our unique brand style,” said Jesse McMillin, Creative Director at Virgin America. “Travel can be the most transformative experience and we wanted to design the space to help bring that excitement and sense of style back to the airport experience.”