By 1980, flamboyant Sir Freddie Laker's airline was growing despite a punishing blow following the grounding of all DC-10s. The airline ordered A-300s for a European "Skytrain" service and had extended the service to Miami and Los Angeles. A predatory BA, over-expansion, a too strong pound sterling, and a weak economy grounded the airline in February 1982. Laker inspired Richard Branson to start his Virgin Atlantic in 1984. Sir Freddie himself re-emerged in the U.S. with a Ft Lauderdale to the Bahamas charter airline.