DFW is a good option for AirTran to add via mainline service. PIT, IND and STL lose mainline service, which is definitely a smart move from a load standpoint at least. It's a way to right size bleeding markets to focus on other routes that have a better chance of making money.

Interesting that they are starting the new SkyWest service in the dead of winter.

Here is the official release:

http://pressroom.airtran.com/phoenix...983&highlight=

Interesting that they are only calling Milwaukee a "focus city" rather than an actual hub.

These changes dilute the FL product in MKE a little bit, since there will be no XM radio, WiFi, or business class.

Perhaps that's why these planes will be marketed as SkyWest, rather than AirTran. This is a change from the JetConnect (operated by Air Wisconsin) that AirTran experimented with 5 or so years ago.

Will elites have any benefits at all on the SkyWest planes?

Anyway, it shows that AirTran has not yet decided to retreat in MKE. With the announced service, there will be a peak of 56 daily departures from MKE. Not too shabby, and probably the biggest they've ever done outside of ATL and MCO (not sure about BWI).

I'm sure Knope will have a lot more analysis.