AirTran: A Nostalgic Journey Through Time And Sky

Nov 22, 2023

Last Updated on: Sep 19, 2024

Travel Blog

AirTran Airways was an American low-cost airline originally headquartered in Orlando, Florida, which ceased operations after the acquisition of Southwest Airlines. AirTran Airways was founded in 1993 as Conquest Sun Airlines under the management of two small airlines, Destination Sun Airways and Conquest Airlines. They operated mainly Boeing 717s and 737s. It shuttled flyers around the US Midwest as well as the East Coast and stayed in business for 21 years.

Why does it not operate anymore? What happened to AirTran?

AirTran: A Brief Look Back

AirTran_ A Brief Look Back

Conquest Airlines’ co-founder Victor Rivas was one of the founders of Conquest Sun. Who bought AirTran? AirTran Corporation in 1994 purchased the airline and renamed it AirTran Airways. It later exited from AirTran Corporation’s new holding company, Airways Corporation.

The holding company of ValuJet acquired the airline, and the holding company of Airways Corporation in 1997, which owned the struggling ValuJet Airlines. ValuJet’s holding company became AirTran Holdings and merged with ValuJet Airlines’ AirTran Airways. ValuJet Airlines, in turn, became “AirTran Airlines” before merging with AirTran Airways.

Southwest Airlines acquired AirTran Airways and parent company AirTran Holdings on May 2, 2011. It gradually integrated them with AirTran’s last revenue flight on December 28, 2014.

It operates nearly 700 flights per day, primarily in the eastern and midwestern United States, with its main hub at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport serving nearly 200 daily departures. AirTran’s fleet consisted of Boeing 717-200 aircraft, of which it was the largest operator in the world, and Boeing 737-700 aircraft.

AirTran History

AirTran History
Image Source: community.southwest.com

This was founded in 1993 as Conquest Sun Airlines and began operations as an original Boeing 737-200 that flew to and from Orlando.

AirTran Airways was founded by the management of both Destination Sun Airways and regional carrier Conquest Airlines. The founding of Destination Sun Airways is unclear. Which claims Destination Sun was founded in 1991 by former Northeastern International Airways CEO Guy Lindley and that the airline was formerly known as SunExpress and was based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

Another source claimed that Destination Sun was founded in 1990 by a group of pilots, presumably former Eastern Air Lines pilots, as AirTran management later claimed that it was founded by former Eastern Air Lines employees. Rafael Rivas and Victor Rivas founded Conquest Airlines in April 1988 in Texas. Victor Rivas, one of the founders of Conquest Airlines, was also closely involved in the founding of Conquest Sun Airlines.

In 1994, AirTran Corporation, the holding company of Minneapolis-based Mesaba Airlines, acquired Northwest Airlink from Northwest Airlines, with hubs in Minneapolis and Detroit. After the purchase, the airline changed from Conquest Sun Airlines to AirTran Airways to match the name of the holding company. The airline moved its headquarters to Orlando and grew to 11 Boeing 737s serving 24 cities in the eastern as well as midwestern United States, offering low-cost vacations to Orlando.

In 1995, AirTran Corporation established a new subsidiary called Airways Corporation and placed it under the new subsidiary; AirTran Corporation then separated from the new Airways Corporation, becoming an independent holding that also owns AirTran Airways. After the separation, AirTran Corporation became Mesaba Holdings after its subsidiary Mesaba Airlines separated from AirTran Airways. AirTran Corporation/Mesaba Holdings then became MAIR Holdings, which liquidated in July 2012.

Latest Developments

On September 27, 2010, Southwest Airlines announced the acquisition of AirTran Airways and parent company AirTran Holdings for a total of $1.4 billion. The deal gave Southwest a significant presence in many AirTran hubs, including Atlanta (at the time the largest US city without Southwest service) and Milwaukee, as well as expanded service to Baltimore and Orlando. With the acquisition, Southwest added international service to several leisure destinations such as Cancún, Montego Bay, and Aruba.

Southwest integrated AirTran’s Boeing 737-700 series fleet with the Southwest Airlines brand and design, after which the Boeing 717 fleet leased out to Delta Air Lines beginning in mid-2013. The airlines planned to complete as well as close the deal within two years, with the two airlines operating as separate carriers in the interim. The deal closed on 2 May 2011, and the airline won a license on 1 March  2012. The full integration of all employee groups between the two airlines ended in 2015.

On February 14, 2013, Southwest Airlines announced that it had entered into a codeshare agreement with AirTran. They took the first step on January 25, 2013, launching joint routes in five markets. As of February 25, 2013, Southwest continued to launch joint routes with 39 other markets. By April 2013, joint routes were to be available in all Southwest and AirTran cities (both domestic and international).

Southwest announced that the integration would end on December 28, 2014, when AirTran Airways Flight 1 will be the airline’s last Boeing 717-200 (N717JL) departure from Atlanta Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL) to Tampa International Airport ( TPA). The flight used the call sign “Critter” as a nod to ValuJet. This route and flight number was Valujet’s first flight.

Read More: Top 10 Airports In The USA: Navigating Excellence In Air Travel

Reviews From AirTran Flyers

Reviews From AirTran Flyers
Image Source: chestertravels.com

AirTran has had quite a journey in all these years, and so did its passengers. Here are some of the reviews from people after their flight with AirTrans.

1st Review

“I was given business class, which I was quite thrilled about. The seats are much bigger in this area and I felt comfortable the entire time. The arm rests were actually big enough for me to use as well. I was given a drink and a snack as soon as I boarded the plane – I did not have to wait like the people in coach. I was also offered more drinks and snacks throughout the flight. It is a small perk, but it is nice. It was also nice to be the first off the plane. I did not have to wait for everyone to debark first.”

SharonSaver

2nd Review

“I loved it! The employees were great and they even offered several snacks while in the air. It was my very first time riding on a plane, so I was kind of nervous. The Flight Attendant made me feel so relaxed and offered to sit with me if I needed it, then. Although I declined the offer, it was nice to know that an airline would go the extra mile for their customers. Every time I travel, I go with AirTran because they know how to treat you.”

mrsyoung1983

3rd Review

“I fly to Orlando and LAX several times a year and the only company I’ll fly with is Airtrain! They are one of the few airlines that offer convenient non-stop flights from my local airport. And their flights are always more than $100 cheaper than the other airlines. Their flights are ALWAYS on time. Knock on wood here, but I’ve never had a delayed Airtran flight. In fact, most of my flights arrive at their destinations a few minutes early. The staff is outstanding!”

jenniandtonyx1

Wrapping Up

AirTran Airways was a beloved low-cost airline that operated for 21 years. It offered affordable flights across the US Midwest as well as the East Coast. The airline’s history overlaps with that of several other airlines, including Conquest Airlines, ValuJet Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. They ultimately acquired AirTran Airways and its parent company, AirTran Holdings. AirTran Airways is no longer in operation. But its legacy lives on in the hearts of many who fondly remember their journeys on this iconic airline.

If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask, then please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you!

Read Also:

Share on Social Media

Abdul Aziz Mondol is a professional blogger who is having a colossal interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, he loves to share content related to business, finance, technology, and the gaming niche.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

title-img Related

READ MORE Non-Ski Activities & Amenities In Val Thorens

Non-Ski Activities & Amenities In Val Thorens For Families

BY  Sibashree Sep 20, 2025

Modern families seek more from ski holidays than just pistes, and they want entertainment for non-skiers, activities for young children, convenient downtime options, and excellent safety standards.  You’ll want to discover more than just the slopes, if you are planning on visiting Val Thoren’s for a ski holiday.  There are plenty of non-ski activities in Val Thorens for families to enjoy that make all the difference.  Val Thoren’s has improved its facilities in recent months to tailor towards families who need childcare services, indoor leisure centre facilities, and a diverse range of entertainment options. What Is Val Thorens? If you're new to the ski scene or haven't heard of Val Thorens before, let me give you a quick rundown. Val Thorens is renowned for being the highest ski resort in the Alps, and it's no surprise that it boasts an impressive snow record.  The village sits at an elevation of 2300 meters, and many of the main ski areas soar above 3000 meters, with plenty of north-facing slopes and a couple of small glaciers to boot. However, it's worth noting that the runs coming down from Méribel and those in the Orelle sector can face some challenges.  Since they face south or west, they can get a bit slushy later in the season. There are also many Non-ski activities in Val Thorens that you will enjoy.  That said, the resort does a great job of snow-making, so overall, Val Thorens remains one of the most reliable spots for snow in the Alps. What Are Some Non-Ski Activities In Val Thorens That You Must Check Out? These are some really popular non-ski activities you can enjoy when you visit Val Thorens:  1. Childcare, Nurseries & Snow Gardens Val Thoren’s offers great childcare from early infancy through school age. If you need a daycare for babies from three months old, the ESF daycare provides both full and half-day care options, including meals and multilingual staff that can guarantee safety and comfort.  There are also snow gardens that are catered for toddlers ages 18 months to three years that combine indoor play with an easy snow introduction.  Mini clubs accommodate children aged three to six, offering structured activities whilst parents enjoy the slopes.  For more personalised care, you can hire private nanny services like Little Peaks Childcare. These provide bespoke support with a flexible booking service for parents who wish to book with them on certain days.  For British families, there are English-speaking carers who can understand family preferences and requirements. 2. Indoor Amenities & Leisure Centres If you fancy visiting a leisure centre for the day and enjoying the indoor amenities that the resort has to offer, there is a main sports centre for that. It features heated swimming pools with fun water features and slides for families to enjoy.  It also has a separate children’s soft play area for the kids to enjoy and be entertained during the afternoon breaks.  For older children, there are trampolines and climbing walls to keep them entertained if they enjoy taking on a physical hobby.  Parents can enjoy the wellness facilities that the resort has to offer, such as a sauna and hammam, whilst the children are happily occupied with their activities nearby. When the weather deteriorates, the cinema screens English-language films and subtitled releases.  Bowling facilities and games rooms provide evening entertainment. You get most amenities within walking distance of accommodation, and operate extended hours during peak seasons. 3. Outdoor & Adventure Alternatives There are lots of thrilling non-skiing activities that Europe’s highest ski resort has to offer. Val Thoren’s maintains almost all its terrain above 2,000 metres, according to recent statistics. This provides the perfect snow conditions for alternative activities. There are plenty of activities that range from toboggan runs, night sledding, and husky sledding. Moreover, you will get snowshoeing expeditions that explore mountain landscapes, and zip-lining. 4. Family-Friendly Amenities Val Thorens is a fantastic destination for families, boasting the Famille Plus certification. This means you can expect a variety of family-friendly amenities and services throughout the resort.  You’ll find restaurants that offer kids' menus and highchairs, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families to enjoy meals together. For parents looking to relax, many of the major hotels feature wellness centers with spa treatments and serene areas to unwind.  While you take a moment for yourself, your kids can join in on organized activities designed just for them. If you need any practical items during your stay, worry not! There are plenty of medical services available on-site for those minor scrapes and sniffles. Additionally, you will also find shops that stock all the essentials, like baby supplies and children’s equipment. So you’ll never feel overwhelmed. Plus, the resort’s central booking service is a real lifesaver for busy families. It can help you easily: Arrange accommodations Plan activities So, this makes your vacation much more enjoyable and organized. With the range of facilities available that extend beyond skiing, you’re truly spoilt for choice at Val Thoren’s as it ensures that every family member has a memorable experience. Enjoy All The Non-ski activities in Val Thorens Today!  In today’s fast-paced world, modern families are looking for more than just traditional ski holidays.  They want experiences that cater to everyone's interests and needs. Skiing is fantastic. But it's equally important to find a destination that offers entertainment and activities for those who prefer not to hit the slopes. Additionally, it is also important to consider engaging options for young children.  Additionally, families appreciate convenient downtime options and a focus on safety to ensure a worry-free trip. Val Thorens stands out as a fantastic family-friendly destination. It offers a variety of non-ski activities that can make your holiday truly memorable.  In recent months, the resort has made significant improvements to its facilities, catering specifically to families.  Parents can take advantage of childcare services that allow them to enjoy a few hours on the slopes or relax, knowing their little ones are in good hands. The indoor leisure center is a gem! It features a range of activities that can keep both kids and adults entertained.  There's something for everyone to enjoy, regardless of age, such as: Swimming pools Play areas Family-friendly games In essence, Val Thorens has evolved into a destination that truly understands the needs of modern families. They ensure that both skiers and non-skiers have an unforgettable holiday experience amidst the stunning alpine backdrop.

READ MORE South Beach Wine & Food Festival

Nightlife in Miami: The Ultimate Guide

BY  Sibashree Jan 30, 2025

Miami is a beacon of Caribbean and Latin American culture and one of the hottest (not temperature-wise) places to be! The nightlife in Miami is one of the most famous things people talk about when they visit the city.  Apart from boasting stunning beaches and Cuban influence, there's a lot you should keep on your list—the vibrant nightlife, for example! With its clear blue waters and white sand beaches you can explore during the daytime, the city comes alive during the night.  The following article will explore the different ways you can explore the nightlife of this beautiful city! With its trendy rooftop bars, world-class nightclubs, and beachside lounges, you can expect an amazing time in the city, even if you're here for a night!  If you get the timing right, you may even catch the famous South Beach Wine & Food Festival!  Why Choose Miami for a Night Out?  Well, Vegas has its own charms. While New York and Manhattan have more of a daytime adventure vibe, Miami will always be the poster child of a happening nightlife—the one city that comes alive during the night!  Far from being pretentious, the nightlife in Miami is the Eastern counterpart of Vegas, so if you enjoyed Vegas, you will enjoy the nightlife in Miami! The experience is mostly what you make of it - from enjoying pool parties to getting into clubs, it's your game.  The nightlife in Miami is all about bars, club-hopping along the Ocean drive and soaking in the vibes of this immaculate place!  You can even find 24 hours-open clubs from Thursday through Sunday here!  Did you know Miami is one of the most expensive cities in the world?  3 Perfect Ingredients For A Nightlife In Miami  Now that you're convinced to visit the most happening city in the country, here are different essential elements of a night out in Miami, from having the best food to club hopping and enjoying the beachside club vibes.  Do it all here! Best Nightclubs in Miami That Come Alive At Night! Home to some of the most famous nightclubs in the world, the nightlife in Miami attracts top DJs and celebrities. Here's a look at the best nightclubs for your night out: LIV Miami—One of the most happening nightclubs in Miami is inside the Fontainebleau Hotel. LIV is one of the most iconic nightclubs in Miami, known for its high-energy atmosphere and exclusive VIP experience. E11EVEN is one of the 24/7 ultra clubs that combines live performances, top-tier DJs, and aerial dancers. You are sure to have a unique nightlife experience. This is truly an entertainment venue like no other!  Mynt Lounge – Be sure to follow their dress code, which is smart and elegant, and book a table in advance for a smooth night out! A hotspot for celebrities and VIPs, Mynt Miami offers an upscale and intimate clubbing experience. Story Nightclub—The same team behind LIV brings you Story Nightclub. This place boasts a massive dance floor and an impressive lineup of world-renowned DJs. Space Miami – One of the legendary venues for electronic music lovers, Space Miami will give you an unforgettable clubbing experience. It will last well into the morning. Simply book a Space Miami VIP Table and ensure premium service and the best views of the DJ booth. Trendy Bars and Lounges in Miami For those who prefer a more laid-back nightlife in Miami, here are a few options that offer a variety of stylish bars and lounges: Sugar – One of Brickell's most trendy rooftop bars, Sugar offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. You can also enjoy expertly crafted cocktails here.  The Broken Shaker—A must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts, this award-winning bar at Freehand Miami serves unique and flavorful drinks in a relaxed, bohemian setting. Komodo Lounge—This chic upscale lounge is perfect for those who enjoy a sophisticated ambiance. As the name suggests, it offers Asian-inspired cocktails, so you can get that oriental taste here. Miami Beach Clubs and Pool Parties Miami’s nightlife is more than just bars and clubs, it has beautiful beachside parties and clubs. It also brings with it legendary poolside parties.  Let’s have a look at all the top spots you can have a chill time in:  Brunch-worthy Nikki beach that brings the best of daytime fun and a happening nightlife to you. You can enjoy the sunday-brunch at the beach clubs or have a chill night out at the poolside with a stylish crowd. It’s up to you!  Party at the luxurious Hyde beach that brings the best of luxury and premium bottle service. This location is at the lavish SLS Hotel that brings a poolside party with the top DJs.  The lively Baoli Miami brings fine dining and nightlife together for its visitors to bring the night alive as it passes.  The nightlife scene at Miami is ever-evolving and dynamic, catering to every party-goer! No matter if you’re out there dancing till the sunrises or sipping cocktails on a rooftop for the majestic views.  You can enjoy every bit of the city easily with these locations - even spending your time at the beach club can bring unforgettable nights to you. South Beach Wine & Food Festival! If you're interested in visiting the city and soaking in its culture, here's one way to do so with great food and alcohol! The famous South Beach Wine and Food Festival will be held between February 20th and 23rd, 2025!  With over 105+ events spread out over the four days, you can meet experts and taste their concoctions while contributing to a noble cause. Each year, the SOBEWFF raises nearly $40 million for FIU's Chaplin School of Hospitality and Tourism Management.  From Miami Beach to Kendall and around, you can get a taste of each South Florida corner! When debating between the better nightlife and the one in Miami, it can be said that the one in Miami is far more happening than in LA or Vegas.  Whenever I can, I make it a point to visit the festival to support a great cause. You can easily see how the students run a festival of this scale. They come up with entrepreneurial ventures and test new concepts, too.  If you can, visit Miami in the coming weeks to experience the best of both worlds!   Keep Groovin'! Now that you know about all the hottest spots to live the dream nightlife in Miami, we hope you'll dance the night away and drink responsibly! From spending your day at the beautiful beaches to soaking at the clubs at night. You can do it all here!  The nightlife in Miami is one of the most coveted across the country, and you dare not miss it! You will spot someone famous while partying out, from popular NBA stars to favorite celebrities! You can also enjoy the most famous festivals in the coming weeks, so plan your trip accordingly! The article informs you about the different elements of enjoying the nightlife in Miami. From happening clubs to beach clubs and trendy bars, there's a lot you can explore! Also read Top 10 Most Popular Paraguay Food That You Must Try. Top 13+ Famous Wonders Of India That You Must Visit.

READ MORE Coody 17.2

Coody 17.2 – All-Season Inflatable Tent For Camping

BY  Sibashree Jul 31, 2025

I rarely go camping. But when I do, I make sure I have a memorable time. To ensure this, I prioritize comfort and efficiency in every aspect of my travel, especially my camping essentials.  In today’s fast-paced world, more campers are turning to air tents as a reliable solution for stress-free outdoor experiences. But I? I don’t go for anything else but the Coody 17.2 tent for camping. They have changed my camping experience. They have a modern inflatable tent structure. So, these shelters eliminate the struggle of traditional poles and instead offer quick, intuitive assembly. Are you planning a weekend camping trip or a longer outdoor adventure? Well, Coody 17.2 is here for you. These inflatable models have revolutionized the way people approach the camping experience. Their rising popularity stems from simplicity and functionality. With no rigid frame to manage, users enjoy faster setup, reduced weight, and improved mobility—ideal for families, explorers, and those who simply want to spend more time relaxing and less time assembling. As the demand for comfort and convenience in the outdoors grows, air tents have proven to be a game-changer in modern shelter design. Meet Coody: A Tent For Camping Where Innovation Meets Comfort With over 12 years of experience and more than 40 models launched, Coody has become a trusted name in the world of modern shelters.  The brand specializes in inflatable structures designed for both casual weekend trips and rugged expeditions.  Their flagship Coody 17.2 model highlights the brand’s commitment to combining smart design with all-season performance. Also, what makes Coody tents stand out is their balance of premium materials and smart modular construction.  Additionally, every Coody inflatable tent is engineered for rapid deployment and exceptional livability, no matter the terrain or season.  The proprietary Coody air system ensures fast inflation. Additionally, they have strong structural support. So the tent holds its shape even in rough weather. Whether you're new to camping or a seasoned explorer, Coody’s approach ensures a higher level of comfort, safety, and convenience—without compromising durability. What Are The Key Features Of The Coody 17.2 Air Tent For Camping? The Coody 17.2 is built to handle real conditions. Also, it has no gimmicks, just smart design and proven materials. Here’s what makes it stand out: 1. Fast Setup With The Included Hand Pump The tent inflates in minutes using the built-in air pump. A rugged hand pump comes standard for easy setup and quick deflation without the pump when it’s time to move. 2. Weatherproof Build Durable Oxford fabric and clear TPU windows keep you dry and comfortable. Also, with a 3000mm hydrostatic rating, it handles heavy rain without flinching. 3. Ventilation That Works Multiple mesh windows and vents provide constant airflow. So, whether you’re in summer heat or winter cold, this tent stays breathable. 4. Modular Design For Flexibility A smart tent footprint gives you room where it matters. So, you can add or remove components with its modular, detachable layout depending on your setup.  5. Built To Stand Firm The structure is solid. Also, reinforced seams and tough materials mean the tent holds up in bad weather—giving you peace of mind in the wild. 6. Modular Design: Connect Multiple Tents One of the standout features of the Coody 17.2 is its modular capability. So, you can easily link multiple tents together using the:  Integrated zippers Docking sleeves Whether you're expanding for a growing group or creating separate zones for sleeping and storage, this flexibility turns your campsite into a customized basecamp. A Tent For Camping That Is Built For Year-Round Use The Coody 17.2 isn’t just for fair weather. This tent is built to perform in all four seasons—whether it’s  Freezing Raining Snowing Blazing hot This is the weather resistance overview of this tent for camping:  ConditionProtection featuresRain3000mm hydrostatic coating, full rainfly coverageWindThe reinforced air frame keeps the tent held tightColdSupports a wood stove with a stove jack built inHeatGreat ventilation, breathable mesh windows Why It’s Truly All-Season: Four-season rated: Handles snow, wind, and summer sun equally well Fully weatherproof materials keep you dry Works for winter camping or warm camping alike Rainfly can extend over doors and windows for added protection Designed for year-round use, not just a single season Built to withstand various weather conditions without leaking or sagging Keeps you comfortable—and most importantly, keeps you dry Inside The Tent: Space And Comfort Step inside the Coody 17.2, and it immediately feels like more than just a tent—it’s your home from home in the wild. Spacious interior comfortably fits multiple sleepers and gear Cozy atmosphere makes it ideal for extended stays and glamping setups Large layout gives you real peace of mind during harsh nights The installed stove jack lets you install a wood stove safely Works perfectly as an inflatable tent with a stove for cold-weather trips Mesh windows provide privacy and airflow without losing warmth Comes with an included hand pump—no extra gear required Thoughtful layout gives you room to live, not just to sleep inside the tent Whether you're solo or with a group, this tent is more than shelter—it's comfort in any weather conditions. Coody Tents In Action As The Ultimate Tent For Camping Whether it’s national parks or backcountry trails, Coody tents are built for the great outdoors. If you're on a rugged solo trip or a relaxed family camping weekend, the 17.2 adapts to your style. Campers report smooth setup at every campsite, even in remote areas. Additionally, the frame handles rough terrain and heavy weather like a pro. No poles to snap, no wasted time—just inflate and go. Additionally, when things get tough, the tent can withstand wind, rain, and snow with confidence. That’s the kind of reliability outdoor gear should have. Why Choose Coody? Coody tents are built for serious use. Also, the materials, layout, and features are all chosen to make your time outside easier, safer, and more comfortable. FeatureDescriptionOxford fabricStrong, tear-resistant base layerTPU windowsClear, flexible, and durable3000mm coatingHigh-level waterproofing under pressureCorrosion-resistant partsWithstand moisture, mud, and use What Sets Coody Apart: These are the points that set this tent for camping apart from all the other available options:  These tents are designed for real use—not just looks They adapt to any terrain or season Also, they offer quick setup, solid performance, and easy packing Tents are held secure in strong wind and bad weather Works with the included tent tarp for extra coverage Fully waterproof and water-resistant—not just marketing claims Just let it dry out, and it’s ready for the next trip Built by people who camp. Trusted by those who do it often. Get Premium Comfort With Coody Tent For Camping The Coody 17.2 isn’t just another tent. It’s a fully engineered tent that can be used as a glamping tent that works in any season, any weather, and any environment. So, whether you’re setting up for a weekend hike or long-term camping, this model delivers.  Like all Coody products, it reflects years of testing, real-world use, and a commitment to quality that’s hard to match.