Chuck Yeager Pissed Off At Local Airline

By Erin Sherbert Wed., Dec. 30 2009 at 9:53 AM

Categories: Celebrities, Local News, Public Transit

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Chuck Yeager is in a tizzy because he claims California's newest airline, Virgin America, didn't bother to get his permission when using his name to advertise its in-flight WiFi service.

The 86-year-old retired major general is suing the airline, seeking punitive damages for unjust enrichment and violation of his publicity rights.

According to Courthouse News Service, Yeager claims the airline distributed a press release that states the following: "Not unlike Buzz Aldrin or Chuck Yeager, you have the opportunity to be a part of a monumental moment in air travel."

Yeager claims he never signed-off on this, because he says he almost never permits his name to be used by private companies or for the aviation industry to advertise products and services.

And if he were to let the industry use his name, he would demand just what it is worth --big bucks.

Abby Lunardini, a spokeswoman with Virgina America, says the airline regrets its mishap and is working to rectify it.

"We are big fans of General Yeager's groundbreaking contributions to aviation history, and we regret getting a little too carried away in our enthusiasm," Lunardini says.

Source: Courthouse News Service

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