New Plane?
 

BOEING 717-200 TEST AIRPLANE FLIES AIRTRAN AIRWAYS ROUTES

June 3, 1999--The first Boeing
717-200 production-configured airplane, painted in the colors of
launch customer AirTran Airways (Nasdaq:AAIR), has successfully
completed a unique, 10-day simulated airline program.
The program, known as the Pre-Aircraft Certification Airline
Simulated Operation (PACASO), was used to demonstrate the 717-200's
operational performance as well as the airline's ground support
capabilities.
"PACASO is an early opportunity to gain real in-service
experience before AirTran conducts its required FAA route-proving
operation and then starts carrying passengers this October," said Jim
Phillips, Boeing Commercial Airplanes Group vice president - 717
Program.
The 717-200 used in PACASO is one of four development airplanes
making good progress in the Boeing flight test and certification
program. The airplane was operated on AirTran's U.S. route system,
covering more than 25 airports in 12 states. AirTran pilots, flight
attendants, mechanics and service personnel participated in the
operation.
AirTran is the launch customer for the 717-200, an airplane
Boeing is committed to developing to meet the airline industry's need
for efficient, 100-seat transports for regional service. AirTran has
50 orders and 50 options for the 717-200. It is scheduled to receive
the first airplane in September and seven more before the end of the
year.
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 Hartsfield Airport, systemwide, AirTran operates over
275 daily departures to 30 cities. AirTran operates over 130 daily
departures from Atlanta, 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 49 jet aircraft, 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.

David -- it used to be the MD-95, before the Boeing buy out. TWA also has an order for 50 copies, Midwest Express is also interested in the aircraft.

That clinches it. I'm buying myself some Boeing stock and starting a DRIP. Hel-looooo retirement!

Samantha