UATP adds Virgin America as new merchant
Washington, July 9, 2009 -- Universal Air Travel Plan, Inc. (UATP) continues its expansion adding Virgin America as its newest merchant effective immediately. To meet customer demand, Virgin America adds UATP as a form of payment to help expand its market share in the airline industry.
"As a new airline, we've quickly recognized the demand for UATP acceptance and want to expand our corporate client base while lowering distribution costs," said Diana Walke, Vice President of Planning and Sales at Virgin America. "Virgin America is injecting some healthy competition into the airline industry with our award-winning service, low fares and upscale amenities - and corporate travelers are responding."
Launched in August 2007, Virgin America is a new California-based airline on a mission to make flying good again - with brand new planes, attractive fares, topnotch service, and a host of innovative amenities that are reinventing domestic air travel. UATP will enhance Virgin America's strategic plan through UATP's mission of helping airlines lower distribution costs with low merchant service fees and a global network available to all corporate travelers. Ticket purchases are available to the UATP Network through traditional channels and Virgin America will continue to enhance availability for all UATP cardholders.
"Focusing on the key drivers for success, a strong business strategy and expanding services, Virgin America has positioned itself for rapid growth," Ralph Kaiser, president and CEO, UATP stated. "The Virgin brand is a leader in the airline industry and Virgin America will be able to increase its market share in the corporate travel arena."
The airline's base of operations is San Francisco International Airport's ultra-modern International Terminal. Virgin America flies to San Francisco, Los Angeles, New York, Washington D.C., Seattle, Las Vegas, San Diego, Boston and Orange County.
For more information, visit http://uatp.com or www.virginamerica.com .
About UATP
UATP accounts are accepted as a form of payment for corporate business travel by Amtrak(R), airlines and travel agencies worldwide. UATP accounts are issued by: Air New Zealand (ANZFF.PK), American Airlines (NYSE: AMR), Austrian Airlines (AUALF.PK), Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL), Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL), Japan Airlines (JALSY.PK), Northwest Airlines, Qantas Airways, Ltd. (QUBSF.PK), United Airlines (Nasdaq: UAUA), and US Airways (NYSE: LCC). AirPlus International issues the UATP-based Company Account for: British Airways (LSE: BAY.L), Continental Airlines (NYSE: CAL), and Lufthansa German Airlines.
Source: Company press release.
