AirTran Interest in Dulles Route Weak

AirTran Airways has canceled plans to fly from Logan International Airport to Washington Dulles International Airport, an indication that airlines aren't convinced the demise of Independence Air will create an opportunity to boost fares.

Independence Air, which routinely offered prices lower than $50, will stop flying tomorrow night. Though many believe the loss means prices will ultimately rise, it may not happen right away.

``We have decided that nobody is going to make money on Dulles for a while,'' said Kevin Healy, AirTran director of planning.

The airline, which unveiled its planned Logan-Dulles launch late last year, decided quietly to cancel those flights after other airlines moved in.

United Airlines has increased capacity on the route and JetBlue plans to start flying to Dulles later this month. JetBlue will offer introductory flights for $25 one-way. Regular prices will run $55 to $140.

For now, those with Independence Air tickets for dates after the airline stops its service can fly standby on another airline for a $50 fee. Those who want reservations may have to pay hundreds more, depending on when they want to fly.

Tickets on all airlines from Logan to Dulles in January were running from just over $100 to more than $400 depending on the day of travel.

In the long run, prices are likely to rise, say airline watchers. Independence Air failed because its rates were too low, analysts say.

News stories provided by third parties are not edited by "Site Publication" staff. For suggestions and comments, please click the Contact link at the bottom of this page.