Virgin America receives approval

Virgin America, a low-cost carrier backed by billionaire Richard Branson, won final approval to begin US flights and keep chief executive Fred Reid for six months.

The airline can start flying once it gets needed safety permits and makes agreed-upon changes, the US Transportation Department said.

Flights by Virgin America would help meet Mr Branson’s goal of expanding his Virgin brand in the world’s largest airline market. The California-based carrier plans to begin with New York-San Francisco flights and then expand.