Airtran Airlines

I have started diverting all of my airline business to Airtran out of Milwaukee.

This airline has pleasantly surprised me on many fronts.

1) Booking on their website is simple and straightforward.

2) Airfare is so cheap that even I can afford to fly them. ($39 each way to St. Louis, for example.)

3) On time. Every single flight I have been on so far is on time, not even 5 minutes late. How refreshing.

4) Service with a smile. The employees who work here both in the airports and in the airplanes seem really happy. I got off my flight and took a shuttle to the airport. While waiting in the shuttle I saw my captain and co-pilot thanking and hugging all the flight attendants in such a respectful way. It was nice to see.

5) Flexible - though I don't pay for early seating assignments I always get to the airport at least 2 hours early so I ask for a window seat (for free) and I have always gotten it so far.

6) I like how award tickets are issued. Instead of counting miles, every flight counts the same - no matter how far (or short), no matter how cheap.

7) I booked a trip for 2 and 1 had to cancel. There was no way to split the itinerary online so I called to ask. The customer service rep offered to split the itinerary and cancel the 1 for free (typically a $15 charge) and credited my account with what was left of the ticket.

8) Free XM Radio and Free WI-FI internet access in the cabin. The passengers seem to be quieter because they are entertained.

9) Lastly, though they don't serve food on the plane, they do still offer free beverages including a better selection of soda and juices.

Good beer, wine and cocktails are still cheap here at only $5 each instead of the $7-8 I have seen elsewhere. Great flavors to mix with, too!

They also still serve pretzels or biscotti.


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Downsides:
No pillows or blankets are available on flight service so now I just bring my own in my carryon.