Richard Branson continues to expand Virgin's services in the U.S. with the launch of a long-haul Virgin Blue spin off, which will operate nonstop flights between the U.S. and Australia. On Wednesday, Virgin Blue, which operates domestically in Australia, got word of approval from Australia's International Air Services Commission to operate nonstop services between the two countries beginning November 2008. Pending approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation, the flights--dubbed V Australia--initially will operate between the east coast of Australia and the west coast of the United States, using a new fleet of B777-300ER. In the meantime, V Australia is working on developing its route network, product and fare structure. Visit [www.virginblue.com].
