VIRGIN AMERICA could be flying in less than six months” time according to Sir Richard Branson. Speaking at the Aviation Club he said he was running out of patience with the US authorities and their reluctance to allow competition from overseas investors. He cited the example of JetBlue, where after initial discussions Virgin were not allowed to become involved. Any new airline would require Virgin to become the junior partner, investment limited to 49% and voting rights 25%. Serious discussions were under way and whilst the six month target looks difficult he points out that Virgin Atlantic itself was launched in just three months. http://www.virgin.com