AirTran adding flights to winter escapes

By Clara Bosonetto Maerz

For ajc.com

Here's a primer on what's new at AirTran Airways.

The carrier is adding some new dots to its route map. All of the destinations are sunny, warm and places to where we can escape (affordably) during winter's gloomy days. Get ready to go!

On Dec. 17, AirTran will add two daily nonstop flights between Atlanta and Nassau in the Bahamas. One-way rates start from $124 and require at least a 28-day advance notice of travel. Passport required for U.S. citizens.

Also on Dec. 17, service to Key West, Fla., will be offered on same plane service via Orlando (change of aircraft is not required). Rates requiring a 21-day advance notice of travel start from $159.

Starting on Dec. 19, AirTran will add a nonstop Saturday-only flight between Atlanta and Aruba in the Netherlands Antilles island chain, just off the coast of Venezuela, South America (with Bonaire and Curacao). Passport is required for U.S. citizens.

Montego Bay, Jamaica, will be served daily starting Feb. 11 with one-way rates from $165, based on a two-week or more advance purchase notice. Passport is required for U.S. citizens.

Factor in up to $25 to the above rates for extra taxes, fees, surcharges.

Need to apply for a new passport or renew an old one? Visit the U.S. State Department for all your needs.