Richard Branson's tentative new airline Virgin America announced that they have chosen EchoStar Communications Corp. (DISH) as the primary inflight entertainment for the airline.
Technically Branson can't legally have a controlling interest in the airline, as U.S. law forbids foreign control of any domestic airline.
At this time the U.S. Department of Transportation has denied Virgin America an operating license because of concerns that foreigners (read Branson) will exercise too much influence in its operations. They've given Virgin America until January 16 to respond back to the refusal to grant them a license to operate in the U.S.
Branson is a major financial backer of the airline, and has hired the leadership of 
the company as well.
As far as the agreement with EchoStar, the programming that is carried on their satellite TV Dish network will be put on the Virgin America flights.
Comment Preview