Southwest Airlines announced
today that its bid for various assets of ATA Airlines, along with
debtor-in-possession financing, has been approved in federal bankruptcy
court proceedings. These transactions, along with a code share agreement,
are expected to close this week. “We are obviously pleased with today’s bankruptcy court approval,” said
Southwest Airlines CEO Gary Kelly. “We have enjoyed working with the ATA
people, and we look forward to getting started on our code sharing early
next year. I extend my congratulations to ATA as it begins its
restructuring process. The real winners, of course, are Customers
traveling to and from Chicago Midway Airport who will see more low-fare
Southwest service and a continuing presence from ATA.”

Beyond the initial code share agreement at Chicago Midway Airport, future
code share connection opportunities are possible at: Las Vegas, Seattle,
Phoenix, Los Angeles International, and Orlando. Criteria would include
the ability to ensure efficient facilities to accommodate passenger and
baggage transfer between the two airlines and the ability to provide
convenient, viable connecting schedules.
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