NEWS

August 11, 2003

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Contact: Michael C. McCarron Director, Bureau of Community Affairs (650) 821-4000 SF-03-41

AMERICA WEST LAUNCHES NEW NON-STOP SERVICE FROM SFO TO NEW YORK-JFK AND BOSTON-LOGAN

SAN FRANCISCO -- America West announced today that it will become the first and only low-fare carrier to operate non-stop transcontinental service between New York/JFK and Boston Logan International and San Francisco . The new flights between JFK and San Francisco will begin December 19, and flights between Boston and San Francisco will begin March 1, 2004.

"This new strategic opportunity will bring convenient low-fare service to the last major non-stop routes dominated by high-cost carriers," said Doug Parker, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. "America West is adding these point-to-point flights because of growing customer demand for quality air service at an affordable price between the most desirable . This service will provide an unmatched combination of service, value and convenience to a large and important segment of the flying public."

“We are extremely excited that a low cost carrier of America West’s caliber is expanding service at SFO,” stated Airport Director John L. Martin. “With the addition of America West’s non-stop service to the major markets of Boston and New York, our passengers will be provided top-notch service at extremely competitive fares,” added Martin.

America West's last minute business fares start as low as $299 each way. Other airlines charge more than $900 for the same JFK flights and more than $1,200 for the same Boston service. "Our everyday low prices give customers the ability to fly three or four trips on America West for the price of one trip on the competition," said Scott Kirby, Executive Vice President, Sales and Marketing. "Now those business travelers can fly between the right airports at the right price."

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In addition to enjoying America West's business friendly fares, customers will also appreciate the 's flexible ticketing policies including no Saturday night stay requirements, the ability to fly standby on the same day as their originally scheduled flight without an additional fee, and the option to use a non-refundable ticket within a year of the date of purchase.

America West offers many other benefits that are particularly important for business travelers including first-class seating and an award-winning frequent flyer program. FlightFund features unlimited, space-available upgrades, mileage bonuses, preferred seating, priority check-in and early .

"Business travelers can also depend on our outstanding operational performance to get them to their destinations -- and their business meetings -- on time," added Parker. According to the latest U.S. Department of Transportation operating statistics, America West ranks in the top three major airlines in all industry measurements including on- time performance, completion factor, mishandled and customer complaints.

America West will utilize modern Airbus A319 aircraft, featuring 12 first class and 112 main cabin seats as well as in-flight audio and video entertainment on these non-stop transcontinental flights.

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