SkyWest Airlines and AirTran Airways announced today that the airlines have secured a new marketing partnership to operate five 50-seat Bombardier CRJ200 aircraft between Milwaukee’s General Mitchell International Airport and six destinations.
Under the new partnership, it is anticipated that SkyWest Airlines will offer new nonstop service from Milwaukee to Akron/Canton, Ohio; Des Moines, Iowa; and Omaha, Nebraska; and will add frequency from Milwaukee to Indianapolis, Indiana; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and St. Louis, Missouri. SkyWest Airlines will launch its first flights carrying the AirTran Airways’ code from Milwaukee to Pittsburgh and St. Louis beginning December 4, 2009.
“Under this new partnership, SkyWest’s Milwaukee passengers will enjoy more flights to more destinations with all the benefits of AirTran’s vast route network and A+ Rewards program,” said SkyWest Airlines president and COO Russell “Chip” Childs. “Together, SkyWest Airlines and AirTran will be committed to providing passengers with exceptional service, on-time flights, low fares, and the best possible flying experience.”
“This unique partnership and expanded service is an exciting next step for our Milwaukee focus city,” said Kevin Healy, senior vice president, marketing and planning, AirTran Airways. “We are delighted to make new and interesting destinations available to our customers and now offer more choices than ever to, from, and through Milwaukee to the rest of the country.”
SkyWest Airlines’ regional jet service between Milwaukee and six destinations will be sold in conjunction with AirTran jet service with revenue shared on a prorated basis. The aircraft will be placed into service between December 2009 and February 2010. SkyWest Airlines will control local availability, authorization levels, and use of all seat inventory for the aircraft used by SkyWest. SkyWest Airlines will assume fuel cost and will maintain all revenue and pricing responsibility for these routes.
The new SkyWest-AirTran partnership will increase connection options, choice, and convenience for travelers. Tickets are available for purchase at www.AirTran.com .
