AirTran Airways launches new nonstop service

Milwaukee Brewer Walk of Fame great Gorman Thomas threw a ceremonial first putch to launch AirTran Airways added new nonstop seasonal flights from Mitchell Airport (MKE) to Los Angeles, Seattle and San Francisco, which began on May 6; and to San Diego and Boston, along with a second daily flight to Las Vegas, beginning May 21. All routes will be served on AirTran’s popular and fuel-efficient Boeing 737-700 and Boeing 717-200, which include XM satellite radio and business class seating on every flight. Plan your next trip and reserve your ticket now at www.airtran.com.

Lower average fares result in 2007 record passengers

 In 2007, Mitchell Airport served more than 7.7 million passengers, a new record. Competitively priced airfares, additional air service and recent renovations helped boost traffic, according to airport officials. Average airfares out of Milwaukee were lower than 47 other U.S. airports, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, and MKE moved up to 49th largest U.S. airport in passengers served. The new 61,100 square foot, eight-gate addition to Concourse C welcomes travelers with upgraded amenities and new food and retail outlets. Last year, according to federal Department of Transportation statistics for Q3, seats out of MKE were offered at prices $5 lower than those at O’Hare, on average. This year, expect more improvements and renovations at MKE to better serve passengers.

Above: The new 61,000 square foot, eight-gate addition to Concourse C welcomes travelers with upgraded amenities and new food and retail outlets.

Apollo 13 astronaut donates rare pieces to flight museum

Former Apollo 13 astronaut James Lovell and his wife, Marilyn, paid a special visit to Mitchell Airport’s own aviation history museum, the Mitchell Gallery of Flight, in March. Lovell, a Milwaukee native and namesake of Mitchell’s Lovell conference room, added donated artifacts and memorabilia to the museum’s existing permanent display. Among the items donated were several distinguished awards and historic photographs. Lovell’s most valuable donation was his U.S. Navy flight jacket and the Command Service Module Entry Checklist, which he used aboard Apollo 13 and is autographed by Lovell.

Above: Lovell (left) talks with mitchell International Airport director Barry Bateman inside the Mithcell Gallery of Flight.

When dogs fly: Best in Show flies Best Care in the Air

Named best in show at the 2008 Westminster Kennel Club dog show, “Uno” was quickly dubbed a “Midwest Airlines Celebrity Pet.” Uno, a beagle, recently flew Midwest Airlines through Mitchell Airport as he traveled cross country for the 2008 Best in Show Media Tour. Uno and his handlers chose Mitchell Airport’s hometown airline because of its FAA approved Celebrity Pet Program, which was developed to accommodate medium size celebrity pets in the cabin and is exclusive to dogs traveling for appearances and competitions on behalf of Purina. According to the Westminster Kennel Club, Uno loves the seats and Travlin’ Treats offered to him on Midwest flights and took time to meet with travelers and members of the Milwaukee media while making a connecting flight.

Fore! Unique Golf Courses
You may not play like a pro but at least you know the best places to enjoy the scenery. Scroll down to read more.

Globetrotting Teens: Tips for letting teens spread their wings and fly solo

1. Plan ahead
Book nonstop flights to avoid switching planes and having to navigate an airport. The fare may be slightly higher, but it’ll be no match for your peace of mind.

2. Be ready for anything
Pack a small travel pouch or manila envelope with all the necessary travel documents. Arm him with a pre-paid credit card for unexpected expenses.

3. Protect assets
Though unlikely, prepare for lost luggage by packing his carry-on with extra clothes, small toiletries and meds. Remind your young traveler to never let bags out of sight.

4. Relax and let go Most airports will allow parents to venture beyond security gates with a minor traveling alone. Simply ask the ticket agent, and be prepared to be screened by security.

5. Know their whereabouts
Keep a copy of travel itineraries so you can locate him in an emergency. Have your teen call home often. To ensure there are no excuses for not calling home, nothing says “I'll miss you!” like a pre-paid calling card.