AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. and the Branson Airport today announced new nonstop service, beginning in May, to Branson from Baltimore/Washington, Chicago (Midway) and Houston (Hobby).

The expanded service comes in response to increased demand from customers and will give AirTran Airways passengers around the country better access to the “Live Music Show Capital of the World.”

“Branson’s family-friendly sights and sounds make it one of America’s favorite vacation destinations,” said Tad Hutcheson, AirTran Airways’ vice president of marketing and sales. “AirTran Airways prides itself on customer service and moved quickly when the demand for more service to Branson became clear.”

Last year 8 million travelers visited Branson’s world famous hotels, took in its wide array of top-flight entertainment options and enjoyed the area’s other attractions.

“Branson has been one of the top travel destinations in the U.S. for residents of Chicago, Houston and our nation’s capital region for several years,” said Jeff Bourk, Branson Airport’s executive director. “This new air service will make visiting ‘The Live Music Show Capital’ easier and more affordable than ever while connecting Branson to virtually every corner of the country.”

The support AirTran Airways has experienced since launching commercial service from Branson has been excellent. Branson has proven to be a very strong air service market for the low-cost carrier.