I also used to love to fly Virgin from LAX to LHR on the codeshare. If the relationship continued, I never would have flown any other carrier again. I always was able to upgrade to upper class with miles, but I had to call every day to find the R seat availability. I gave up on Virgin after the changes to the relationship. My carryon on the return flight was often attempted to be checked even when it was lighter than my outbound flight.

I guess I should now call myself LGW Wannabee since I have changed to the LAX-IAH-LGW flights. These flights are not too bad and better than going to EWR first. This way I get 100% of the elite mileage and the Elite bonus. I have even had 100% success in upgrading with miles. The miles plus $400 for my upgrade is still worth it to have the big chair. I jsut wish CO would get rid of the tacky toiletries bag that doesn't come close to Virgins.