I’m talking about my experience on Virgin America, that is, although I do remember well that other kind of experience. However, since this is a family site (that’s oddly made up of almost exclusively testosterone-filled, big ego, big watch pilots, and not a few old Hornet guys ), I better watch my language.

I’ve never flown them before, but I have to say this first time was pretty good. The ticket agents were all young and perky, and very friendly and helpful. When I got to the gate, it was obvious that the flight was going to be full. Pretty soon, someone dressed like a mechanic got on the microphone to say that ATC was delaying us by an hour because of weather conditions at the destination, but that he would update us in 10 minutes. Turns out, of course, the fella was the captain himself. Then I saw another similarly dressed person doing the walk around, and I figured that must be the first officer. To pass the time, the agents had hula hoop contests etc. It was corny and dorky, but the kids seemed to enjoy it.

The first thing I noticed upon entering the plane was the mood lighting. Instead of harsh, bright light, there was a soft and soothing FedEx purple color lighting. There was also music with a jazzy beat playing in the background. It was loud enough to drown out the annoying people who insisted on talking on their cell phones about who knows what. Since it was an early flight, I fell asleep and did not partake in the free drinks. I did fool around with the interactive tv thing and it was a nifty contraption.

On the trip home, we got to the airport early. VX must have hired too many people because there was a young pimply man who asked us if he could help us with anything. Well, my husband and I were standing in the line for those with checked luggage, so that must have been our intention – to check our luggage, not have dinner or get tickets to the show. When we got to the head of the line, the young man came running up to say “this lady will help you here.” Ok, he was nice enough. At least he’s employed.

The gate agents this time said they were giving away a coupon for a free drink or movie on the next flight to whoever has the oldest penny. Everyone, including me, dug into our wallets looking at our pennies. My husband found one that said 1961, but the winner was someone who had a 1941 penny in her possession. Nevertheless, the agent gave my husband a coupon when we were boarding. Now I’ll have to fly them again just so I can use it!

VX is not immune to the problems faced by other airlines. It has to pay for fuel, taxes, airport fees and all that. The passengers are the same too – many have not flown before, many fly infrequently, many wore clothes that would have caused their ejection from SWA. There were a number of smelly and hairy men. Crying babies. Teenagers picking their noses. Otherwise, the flight was a good one. I'd do it all again in a heartbeat.

Once I get the chance, I’ll post some pictures.