Aerospace Engineering Alum Leonard Receives 2006 Tony Jannus Award

Air Tran Logo AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc. recently made an announcment at the Tampa International Airport that the company's chairman and CEO, Joe Leonard, was honored as the 2006 Tony Jannus Award recipient by the Tony Jannus Distinguished Aviation Society.

The Tony Jannus Award is named for the pilot recognized by the Smithsonian Institution as the founder of the world's first scheduled passenger airline flight. The airline, which began flights on New Year's Day, 1914, had only one plane, a single-engine Benoist flying boat that flew round trips daily between Tampa and St. Petersburg, Fla. The award recognizes individuals who have contributed to the growth and improvement of the scheduled airline industry.

"The 7,000 crew members of AirTran Airways congratulate Joe on this well-deserved recognition," said Robert L. Fornaro, AirTran Airways president and chief operating officer. "The current success of this company is a direct result of Joe's leadership and vision."

Leonard joined AirTran Airways in 1999 and has since established a seven-year streak of successful revenue earnings despite the downward trend of the airline industry. Under his leadership, the airline has succeeded in becoming a major carrier and was recognized by Entrepreneur magazine as the nation's best low-fare airline.

A native of Augusta, Ga., Leonard received his bachelor's degree in aerospace engineering in 1967 from Auburn University and currently serves on the board of directors of the Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce, Atlanta's 191 Club, the Commerce Club, the Wings Club, and Walter Industries, Inc.

AirTran Airways, one of America's largest low-fare airlines, operates more than 600 daily flights to 50 destinations.