By SCBIZ Staff

CHARLESTON -- An AirTran Airways plane touched down at the Charleston International Airport Thursday, launching the low-fare carrier’s entrance into the region.

AirTran Airways announced earlier this year it would add new service to Charleston after receiving an overwhelming response to an online survey the company conducted late last year called, “Where do you want low fares next?” Charleston became the 55th destination in AirTran's expanding route network.

“Having AirTran provide service to the Charleston area means greater access for travelers from across the country. This will make it much easier for them to experience Charleston's rich history, amazing restaurants and shops, and our world-class golf courses and beaches,” said Rick Mosteller, chairman of the Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

The Charleston Area Convention & Visitors Bureau actively markets the Charleston area in many of the areas served by AirTran, including the Midwest and Northeast. The introduction of new air service to Charleston from these areas is expected to attract growing numbers of affluent travelers.

AirTran fills the void left from low-cost carrier Independence Air, which began servicing Charleston International Airport on June 16, 2004. In November 2005, FLYi filed for Chapter 11 protection and ceased operations in January 2006.

AirTran offers nonstop flight options between Charleston International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

AirTran Airways will offer four daily roundtrip flights between Charleston International Airport and Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport by June 7. Travelers departing from Charleston can connect to 52 cities nationwide via Atlanta.