Virgin America and Alaska Air Are Officially Merging to Change How You Fly in 2017

Following the news that Alaska Air acquired Virgin America for $2.6 billion, we have to admit, we were skeptical. See, many Virgin America fans wondered how the merger might affect their swanky, beloved airline. Now that the merger is actually happening, however, it's clear that things are looking up.

In a joint statement, the airlines announced they would officially be joining forces on Dec. 14 to offer a more cohesive travel option for West Coast residents. The statement read, "With a bigger network, more flights, richer rewards and global partners that span the world, we look forward to earning your loyalty and becoming your 'go-to' airline."

Following their merger, Virgin America and Alaska Air will have effectively created the nation's fifth largest airline with a reported fleet of 286 planes and 1,187 daily flights, according to Business Insider.

As the ink continues to dry on this acquisition, the statement made it very clear that the Virgin America flight experience will remain the same . . . for a little while, at least: "If you have already booked a flight or plan to book on Virgin America, you'll fly on a Virgin America aircraft and be welcomed by their fantastic Teammates, just as you are today."