Airline eyes Atlanta, new planes

Monday, May 13, 2002 | 10:51 a.m.

National Airlines is increasing its available seat miles by 30 percent with the new-service announcement it made today.

And President and Chief Executive Officer Mike Conway said the airline hasn't finished expanding in 2002.

Although operating under Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, the airline is moving forward assuming that a $70 million federal loan guarantee will be approved and that an injection of cash in the company by one of its aircraft lessors, International Lease Finance Corp., Los Angeles, will carry the airline forward.

Conway said Atlanta is the next city in National's sites and the company plans to introduce a new aircraft type to its fleet in late November or December.

Conway said National is looking at leasing Boeing 737-300s, twin-engine jets that have less capacity and a shorter range than the 757 that is the current workhorse of the airline.

The 737, the aircraft type used the most at McCarran International Airport, is favored by Southwest, America West, United and several smaller carriers.

Conway said the plane has the range capability to provide nonstop flights between Las Vegas and Atlanta.