Airtran Riding High Despite Recession

Profitable Airline Looks To Expanding Service At Bwi

AirTran took a risk by charging fees for services that were once free, but said it has contributed greatly to its profits. Fornaro said the backlash from travelers has been minimal and that most like to have the choice of what they pay for, rather than having the cost factored into the cost of everyone's airline ticket.

Fornaro said the company is enjoying its success, but added that catching up to Southwest isn't necessarily a goal for the airline. Instead, he said, the company is striving for high quality, high service and competitive prices.

"If we stick to that, then we can grow," he said.

quick comparison

AirTran Holdings

* 45 flights at BWI, 13 more to be added this summer

* 700 daily flights nationwide

First-quarter profit: $28.7 million

New flights to BWI include: two daily flights to Los Angeles, two daily flights to Seattle and 1 daily flight to Dallas/Fort Worth. The airline is also adding flights to Orlando and Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and Atlanta.

Southwest Airlines

* 161 flights at BWI

* 3,300 daily flights nationwide

First-quarter loss: $91 million

JetBlue Airways

* Four BWI flights beginning in Sept.

* 600 daily flights nationwide

First-quarter profit: $12 million