Here’s a chance to encourage better design of airline experiences. Goodness knows the industry could use some more design-based competition; in addition to Jet Blue (isn’t this what air travel should look like by now?). Go to Virgin America’s website to petition the U.S. Department of Transportation to allow them entry into the market. After my less than optimal experience on Northwest this past week (their seats are narrower and the pitch is shorter than many airlines), I would welcome Virgin here. Especially since Jet Blue has only one flight from PDX. Here’s a blurb from Virgin’s site:

“As you may have heard, the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) tentatively rejected Virgin America’s airline application, pending resolution of some complex issues regarding our ownership. We answered the DOT last week and are continuing our application process. But the fight isn’t over.

The real loser in this battle may be you, the traveler.

Our sole mission has been to provide America with a better option in domestic air travel. We see a huge opportunity and want to take advantage of it. Because it’s who we are: An Airline with a passion for progress and fascination with technology…an airline with a vision to change the way that America flies.”

Thanks to Core 77 for the heads up.