Airtran -

AirTran:the business model for the Majors? - Aviation Strategy

: In a rare corporate maneuver, the much larger ValuJet purchased the smaller, Orlando-based AirTran Airways in 1997 and adopted its name to shed its negative reputation. Innovative Business Model

Unlike typical "no-frills" budget airlines, AirTran carved out a niche by offering premium perks at low prices. airtran

* Substantial cost advantage. AirTran has achieved impressive cost cuts over the past 18 months; in 2002 its unit costs fell by 8. Aviation Strategy

The most fascinating part of AirTran’s history is its origin as , which launched in 1993. AirTran:the business model for the Majors

For years, AirTran operated its largest hub at , using the distinctive call sign "Citrus" as a nod to its Florida roots.

: After the tragic crash of Flight 592 in the Everglades in 1996, the ValuJet brand became synonymous with safety concerns. * Substantial cost advantage

: Southwest eventually retired the AirTran brand and sent its specialized Boeing 717 fleet to Delta. Today, memorabilia from the "big little a" is preserved at Southwest's headquarters in Dallas.