Mexico: Interjet offers low fares from O.C. to south of the border

Interjet, a Mexican airline that began service from Orange County’s John Wayne Airport earlier this month, has a surprise in store for passengers: $289 round-trip fares to Mexico, extra legroom and two free checked bags.

There’s also something special for female fliers: a designated restroom. (When was the last time you saw that on board a plane?)

“Our clients are our No. 1 priority,” said Jose Luis Garza, Internet chief executive. “We want to provide more for less.”

The airline, which began flying within Mexico in 2005, added U.S. service in 2011, beginning with San Antonio, Texas, and later adding New York City and Miami. On Nov. 15, it will begin flying out of Las Vegas.

Orange County service includes daily flights to Guadalajara and Mexico City, with connections to 25 other cities.

Interjet’s fleet is composed of 34 Airbus A320 aircraft. Passenger cabins have been reconfigured to seat fewer passengers and offer a 34-inch pitch--the distance between your seat and the one in front of you-- between seats, Garza said. “Legroom is similar to what other airlines offer in the first-class or business-class cabins.”

I tested the airline’s $289 claim and found a $288 round-trip ticket to Mexico City in January and a $297 round trip ticket to Guadalajara about the same time. Holiday prices were higher.

Info on Interjet: (866) 285-8307

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