Virgin Express
 

Am thinking of trying them to fly MAD-FCO (Madrid to Rome, changing planes in BRU). Yes, the routing is out of the way, but the one way fare of about $50 USD seems like an excellent deal.

How is their reliability?

I've flown on Virgin Express twice and had no problems. Twice is not enough for me to say they're reliable, but I have no complaints and thought you might like some feedback.

If you do use them one suggestion I'd make is to arrive very early for your flight as the counters are somewhat understaffed, waits can be long, and your seat assigment depends on when you show up. Luxury it ain't, but the price can't be beat.

Flown them 3 times. Cheap fares, and average service.

Flew them once out of Brussels, even in (what they laughingly call) Business Class the only words I can use are Sardine Can.

To be honest I didn't know I was going to be flying Virgin Express as it was a Sabena code-share.

The flight was truely awful. Too much hand-luggage and not enough cabin space was just one of the problems. I can't comment on the in-flight service, as I didn't eat or drink as there was just not enough room for me to move my elbows (although I am on the large side).

I would never fly them again, even if they gave me the flight for free. I suppose how much you value a cheap fare over a modicum of comfort. Personally, I would rather pay an extra $150 than suffer like that.

Nick

I flew Virgin Express (Business Class) on Sabena code share BRU London.
Yes, it was like a sardine can. Nick is absolutely right. However, the service was very friendly, motivated staff. They served a snack and champagner. I belive, we did not get a seat assignment. You board and sit where you want, like in a bus.
I would fly them again - I liked the attitude of the staff, Bronson can be proud of them - maybe not in economy unless it's real cheap and the flight is not to long.