Monday, September 8, 2008

Expedia, Virgin America in Multi-Year Partnership

Online travel booking firm Expedia Inc. revealed Monday that it has inked a multi-year deal with the Virgin America, a startup domestic airline based in San Francisco. The financial impact of the strategic partnership was not disclosed. Expedia explained that, under the terms of the deal, it will offer all of Virgin America's published fares, schedules and inventory to U.S. travelers through its Expedia.com Web site. Additionally, Expedia said managed business travel clients of its corporate travel division, Egencia, will be able to book flights on Virgin America later this month. Expedia also noted that its Media Solutions Group has partnered with Virgin America to launch an advertising campaign in hopes of increasing exposure for the Virgin America brand. Expedia is headquartered in Bellevue, Wash. Virgin America is the U.S. discount air service started by Sir Richard Branson.