AirTran, Southwest to Begin Code Sharing
Courtesy: AirTran Airways
Dallas-based Southwest Airlines continues efforts to integrate AirTran Airways (which maintains its main hub at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport, at least for now). Soon, travelers will be able to book one ticket and connect to either airline, reports the Dallas Morning News.
From Terry Maxon:
Kelly said the system that allows code-sharing “is ready.” A test will begin Dec. 26, followed by a “soft rollout of that functionality in January, followed by a Phase 1 more full rollout in Feb. Phase 2 in March and, presuming everything goes well, full up in April.”
Although Southwest closed its purchase of AirTran on May 2, 2011, the two carriers have operated separate networks. If someone wanted to take a Southwest flight and then travel onward on an AirTran flight, it would require two tickets.Kelly said the “long pole in the tent” on completing the integration of AirTran into Southwest is technology, primarily its work to replace Southwest’s reservations system. That work began last year when Southwest picked Amadeus to provide the technology.
The work has progressed now to allow the code-sharing, he said.
Southwest Airlines spokesman Brad Hawkins tells WABE the airline’s CEO, Gary Kelly, has long said early 2013 is the target for code-sharing. Today’s news gives us a more detailed timeline.
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