Boeing

The 50th Boeing Next-Generation 737 in AirTran Airways' distinctive livery took off Monday following delivery at Boeing Field. AirTran Airways, which began service in 1995 exclusively using 717-200s, took delivery of its first Next-Generation 737 in August, 2004. "For this airline to have taken 50 Next-Generation 737s in less than three years speaks both to the success of AirTran Airways and the positive contribution of Boeing products to an airline's bottom line," said Ray Conner, vice president, Sales, Boeing Commercial Airplanes. The milestone 737 will join the all-Boeing low-cost carrier's fleet of 737s and 87 717s.