MidCon fleet upgrades

While it saddens us as members of the Aviation Community to see another company leave the market under the strain of current operating conditions, the cessation of operations by American Trans Air (ATA) makes available a complement of aircraft that are compatible with the fleet-realignment goals of MidContinent Airlines.MCA has been receiving new 737NG aircraft as they come from the factory, however under the current fuel cost crisis, replacement of the "Classic" 737s - 737-300 and 737-400 aircraft - has become a priority for the airline.Since the retirement of the 767-200 under both fuel- and maintenance-pressures, the company has had a gap in capacity in its high-volume trans-continental fleet. The 757-300 was targeted early-on as a successor, but due to its popularity and relative scarcity, aircraft were not available.Upon hearing the news of ATA's closure, MidContinent acted quickly to negotiate the acquisition of thirteen 737-800 and four 757-300 aircraft. Details are still being worked out between MCA and ATA's creditors and lessors, but the MidCon team is hopeful that these aircraft can be given a bright new home in this flourishing airline. In addition to these 17 aircraft, and unrelated to the ATA acquisition, four 737-700's that have been in storage have identified and, through negotiations with the lessors, will be joining the MidCon fleet. With the addition of the NGs, Classic 737s will be retired in due course, decreasing airline operation, fuel and maintenance costs.Again, our thoughts are with the pilots and employees of ATA, and we wish them luck in this difficult time.Darren HessChief Information OfficerMidContinent Airlines