Southwest's first flight out of Atlanta

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Southwest Airlines makes it's first departure at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Sunday, Feb. 12, 2012.

Southwest Airlines employees put up themed-colored balloons to welcome passengers as the Dallas-based carrier makes its first departure at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Sunday, Feb. 12, 2012. Southwest acquired AirTran Airways last year in part to gain entry into Atlanta. AirTran will continue to operate for a couple of years, as Southwest adds service in Atlanta and gradually integrates AirTran flights into its own operations.

It was certainly "go time" as Southwest Airlines made its first departure from Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Sunday.

The Dallas-based airline flew in four planes to position them for the launch of the first scheduled flights.

Sarah Hawkins-Floyd prepares to board Flight 361 bound for Denver as Southwest Airlines makes its first departure from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Sunday.

Jessica Bradberry boards Flight 3738 bound for Baltimore as Southwest Airlines makes its first departure from Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Sunday.

Southwest Airlines flight crew Belinda Yantis is seen onboard Flight 3738 to Baltimore.

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Southwest Airlines employees put up themed-colored balloons to welcome passengers as the Dallas-based carrier makes its first departure at Atlanta's Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport Sunday, Feb. 12, 2012. Southwest acquired AirTran Airways last year in part to gain entry into Atlanta. AirTran will continue to operate for a couple of years, as Southwest adds service in Atlanta and gradually integrates AirTran flights into its own operations.

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