AirTran's New Apprentice Maintenance Technician Program Graduates First Class.

ORLANDO, Fla.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 22, 1999--The first class to complete AirTran's newly created apprentice maintenance technician program, which emphasizes on-the-job training for aircraft maintenance technology students, was formally recognized in a graduation ceremony on March 1.

"The benefit of the program is that you learn a great deal more about the entire airline operation and the value of teamwork than you would from other programs," said Paul Warner, a student in the apprentice maintenance technician program.

Last year AirTran launched an innovative and comprehensive apprentice program that reflects the airline's commitment to recruiting and developing the industry's best aircraft maintenance technicians. "The program was established to attract candidates who will become competent, experienced and well-rounded technicians and valued team members," said Robert W. Zoller, senior vice president of maintenance and engineering, AirTran.

AirTran set out to make its program stronger than the traditional apprentice-training model, which is heavy on classroom time and light on hands-on work. "We feel we have created the best training program in the industry and one that is unique due its diversity," said Charles McCormick, manager of AirTran's training program.

AirTran's program exposes recruits to a variety of on-the-job training and work assignments, as well as formal classroom instruction. Training includes orientation about the company, aircraft and systems familiarization, service checks and trouble-shooting. In-depth work assignments allow apprentices to rotate each month to a different part of the company, such as maintenance control, records and reliability, engine shop, and quality assurance/inspection.

This teaches students how to perform jobs under real working conditions. Periodic progress reports keep students on track throughout the program, which typically lasts 12 to 24 months depending on individual performance.

AirTran operates over 130 daily departures from Atlanta and offers the convenience of easy, same concourse connections in Atlanta Hartsfield International Airport. Systemwide, AirTran operates over 270 daily departures to 31 cities.

Recipient of Entrepreneur magazine's 1998 award for "Best Domestic Low-Fare Airline," 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 49 jet aircraft, AirTran is the launch customer for the new Boeing 717-200 with a firm order of 50 aircraft and options for another 50. Delivery of these aircraft commences this fall. AirTran is a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. (Nasdaq:AAIR)

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

Editor's Note: A photo of AirTran's first graduated class of apprentice maintenance technicians is available on the AirTran website at www.airtran.com in the press room photo gallery.