This month, the Department of Transportation?s Passenger Protection Regulations go into effect for all airlines. Although a few of these regulations (like the ability to cancel a reservation within 24 hours without penalty) have been long-standing policies at Virgin America, guests may see a few changes in regards to how we communicate flight status changes and how refunds for baggage fees and optional service fees are implemented. Additionally, on January 26, 2012, we will also change the way that we advertise fares to include all government-imposed taxes and mandatory fees in the displayed fare. Essentially, all government-imposed taxes and mandatory fees will be included into the quoted fare displayed on our web site.

For all tickets purchased for travel on or after October 29, 2011, we have changed our overweight baggage fee policy.

For all guests booked for travel on or after October 29, 2011, the following now applies:

• The first checked bag will be accepted up to a weight of 50 pounds (versus the previous 70 pound limit).
• If the first bag weighs more than 51 pounds but less than 70 pounds, a $50 overweight fee applies in addition to applicable checked bag fees.
• If the first bag weighs more than 71 pounds but less than 100 pounds, the fee will be $100 in addition to any applicable checked bag fees.

Learn more about the baggage weight limit change here.

Starting October 17, we are moving from Gate 109 to Gate 112. Guests traveling should note that our ticket counter and the security checkpoint will remain the same. Those arriving at MCO will continue to pick up checked baggage at Terminal A.

Starting October 9, we are moving from Concourse B to Concourse A in Terminal 4. Guests traveling should note that our ticket counter location will remain the same but heading to Concourse A will take you through a different security checkpoint. Those arriving at JFK will continue to pick up checked baggage at Carousel 2.

Due to a Transportation Security Administration mandate, toner and ink cartridges over 16 ounces are now prohibited in carry-on and checked baggage for all domestic flights. For more information about the new restricted items, please visit the TSA’s Website