AirTran's New 717 Aircraft Completes Route Proving Test; Aircraft Enter Route System Ahead of Schedule.

ORLANDO, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Oct. 27, 1999--

The first two of AirTran's new Boeing 717-200 aircraft successfully completed seven days of route proving evaluations and smoothly entered the airline's system on October 12 and 13 respectfully.

All airlines that take delivery of new aircraft are required by the FAA to perform operation tests prior to commercial service. After taking delivery of two new aircraft in late September, the airline began testing both in its route system. During this period, the airline and the FAA conducted numerous readiness operations and aircraft servicing evaluations. The 717's flew a total of 23 segments between 10 different airports.

"The proving runs allowed us to really get our hands on the aircraft and put it to the test to ensure that our passengers experience the most exciting and comfortable flight possible on this brand new aircraft," said Joe Leonard, CEO and chairman of AirTran. "We tested everything from the coffeemakers to the global positioning system."

Leonard continued, "Since the proving runs were so successful, we decided to put the first 717 into commercial service on October 12 and the second on October 13, which is approximately two days earlier than expected. "

On Tuesday, October 12, AirTran interchanged a DC-9 aircraft with a 717 and flew between Atlanta, Washington Dulles and Boston. The following day, both 717's were in service and flew between Atlanta, Tampa, Washington Dulles, Ft. Lauderdale and Orlando.

"Since their addition to the AirTran fleet, the two B-717s have operated reliably and have been receiving positive comments from customers and AirTran personnel," said Robert Zoller, senior vice president of AirTran's maintenance and engineering. "We are very pleased with the first two weeks of operations. The AirTran team is working to take delivery of two additional B717s this week, and four more prior to the end of 1999."

The 717-200 is the only new 100-seat airplane in production today. It is designed specifically for short-haul, high-frequency routes and offers low acquisition, trip and maintenance costs. The 717-200 is the quietest airplane in its class and offers a new flight deck and engines, and a comfortable interior.

Offering the convenience of easy, same concourse connections in Atlanta, systemwide, AirTran operates over 275 daily departures to 30 cities. AirTran operates over 130 daily departures from Atlanta Hartsfield, the "World's Busiest Airport," as designated by Airports Council International.

AirTran provides everyday, affordable air travel throughout the eastern United States and Midwest. Unlike other airlines, AirTran never requires a roundtrip purchase or Saturday night stay. Currently operating a fleet of 48 jet aircraft, AirTran is the launch customer for the new Boeing 717, the newest, most innovative commercial aircraft to date. AirTran is a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq:AAIR).

For more information and reservations, call your travel agent, 800-AIRTRAN (800-247-8726), 770-994-8258 (in Atlanta), or visit the AirTran website at www.airtran.com.