Today, the City of Wichita proudly celebrates the arrival of AirTran Airways, the nation's second largest low fare airline carrier. AirTran begins new service with three daily non-stop flights to and from Wichita and Atlanta as well as two daily non-stop flights to and from Wichita and Chicago-Midway. This totals 10 additional daily flights at Mid-Continent Airport.
Overwhelming community support was instrumental in bringing AirTran to Wichita. The Fair Fares committee brought in pledges from hundreds of businesses, organizations and communities totaling more than $4 million. This was a key component in securing the low-fare carrier.
"The City of Wichita has won a major battle that we have been fighting for a long time," said Mayor Bob Knight. "Today is our day to celebrate and I hope you are as proud of this day as I am."
Former Senator Bob Dole and several AirTran officials including CEO Joe Leonard are in Wichita for today’s celebration of the airlines arrival.
AirTran will be flying their new Boeing 717s in the Wichita market. The jets are known for comfort and space in both business class and coach. Wichita is the airline’s 38th destination. While the two direct flights are to and from Atlanta and Chicago-Midway, this service will offer connections to an additional 35 destinations, including the Grand Bahamas Island. For more information on AirTran, visit the City’s website at www.wichita.gov or AirTran’s website at http://www.airtran.com/.