EGG HARBOR TOWNSHIP, N.J., Mar. 23 -- Gov. Jon S. Corzine, D-N.J., issued the text of the following speech:

AirTran Airways will become the newest air link in Atlantic City and the southern New Jersey region, Governor Jon S. Corzine announced today as he welcomed company officials to Atlantic City International Airport. The airline will provide affordable non-stop daily service to and from Atlanta and the resort city beginning June 11, 2009.

"We could not be more pleased that AirTran will be providing air service out of the Atlantic City International Airport," Governor Corzine said. "The dynamic environment in Atlantic City and ongoing economic development throughout South Jersey has created the opportunity for AirTran to serve a market that has been eager for more convenient access to national air service. This new addition is a real boost for business and tourism in the Garden State."

The announcement comes following a focused effort to attract new air service to the airport by the South Jersey Transportation Authority in partnership with Atlantic City stakeholders and casino operators. AirTran Airways, a subsidiary of AirTran Holdings, Inc, connects to more than 40 destinations through Atlanta.

"AirTran's new Atlantic City Airport service will increase access to Atlantic City, improving commerce and tourism at the Jersey Shore," said Transportation Commissioner and SJTA Chairman Stephen Dilts. "In addition, South Jersey residents may now travel to Atlanta through a convenient, local airport."

Easily accessible to travelers from throughout New Jersey and Philadelphia, Atlantic City International Airport is as an alternative to other airports in the region. As a result, passengers have saved over 11 million miles and 314,000 traveling hours.