Low-cost travel connecting America's cities.
Founded
1997
Headquarters
Orlando, United States
AirTran Airways was a major low-cost carrier based in the United States, operating primarily out of Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Founded from the remnants of ValuJet Airlines following a fatal 1996 crash, AirTran rebranded and rebuilt its reputation as an affordable, reliable airline serving dozens of domestic destinations.
The airline became known for offering business class seating at low-cost prices, a differentiator in the budget carrier market. AirTran operated an all-Boeing 717 and 737 fleet and expanded significantly through the 2000s, becoming one of the largest low-cost carriers in the southeastern United States.
Southwest Airlines announced its acquisition of AirTran in 2010, completing the integration by December 2014, when AirTran ceased operations entirely. Passengers and routes were absorbed into Southwest's network, ending AirTran's 17-year run as an independent carrier.
Hubs & network
AirTran's primary hub was Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, with secondary focus cities including Baltimore/Washington and Milwaukee.
Fleet
AirTran operated an all-Boeing fleet consisting primarily of Boeing 717-200 and Boeing 737-700 aircraft.
Notable facts
- ›AirTran was rebranded from ValuJet Airlines following the 1996 ValuJet Flight 592 crash in the Florida Everglades.
- ›Southwest Airlines acquired AirTran Holdings in 2011 for approximately $1.4 billion.
- ›AirTran was one of the few low-cost carriers to offer a dedicated business class cabin.
- ›The airline ceased all operations in December 2014 as Southwest completed full integration.
- ›At its peak, AirTran served over 70 destinations across the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
