ValuJet Airlines is an American low-cost airline that primarily operates domestic flights. Founded in 1993, the company was known for its affordable fares and a focus on providing budget-friendly travel options. ValuJet Airlines experienced significant growth during its early years, expanding its fleet and route network. However, the company faced a tragic incident in 1996 when Flight 592 crashed in the Everglades, resulting in the loss of all passengers and crew on board. As a result, ValuJet Airlines underwent a major restructuring and rebranded itself as AirTran Airways. Today, AirTran Airways is a subsidiary of Southwest Airlines, offering flights to various destinations across the United States and the Caribbean.
Meaning and history
ValuJet Airlines was founded by Robert Priddy and Lewis Jordan in 1992. This low-cost airline quickly expanded its operations and became known for its affordable domestic flights. However, in 1996, the company faced a major setback when one of its planes, Flight 592, crashed in the Florida Everglades, resulting in the loss of all 110 people on board. The accident led to a temporary suspension of ValuJet’s operations, and the company underwent significant safety and operational improvements before resuming flights later that year. In 1997, ValuJet merged with AirWays Corporation, rebranding itself as AirTran Airways. Today, AirTran Airways operates as a subsidiary of Southwest Airlines, which acquired it in 2011.
What is ValuJet Airlines?
ValuJet Airlines was a low-cost carrier based in the United States that operated from 1993 to 1997. The airline was known for its affordable fares and primarily served destinations in the southeastern region of the country. However, ValuJet gained significant attention due to a tragic accident in 1996, when Flight 592 crashed into the Florida Everglades, resulting in the suspension of the airline’s operations and subsequent merger with another carrier.