AirTran Airways starts flights in San Juan.

AirTran Airways launched flights at San Juan Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) with the help of professional Puerto Rican boxer and current World Boxing Association Welterweight champion Miguel Cotto, who threw a ceremonial “first punch” to announce AirTran Airways’ arrival.

The airline also celebrated the new flights with traditional Puerto Rican music and dancers, who led Cotto, AirTran representatives and local dignitaries in a parade through the terminal prior to the official launch.

AirTran Airways will offer nonstop flights between San Juan and both Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta, Ga., and Orlando International Airport in Orlando, Fla. Travelers departing from San Juan can connect to 54 cities nationwide via Atlanta and Orlando.

“AirTran is thrilled and proud to land in San Juan. We’ll be providing puertorriquenos with additional flights and easier access to the mainland, even as we bring tourists to Puerto Rico to enjoy the many attractions San Juan has to offer,” said Paul Clements, general sales manager for AirTran Airways. “Passengers flying to and from San Juan will be able to enjoy our many amenities, including free XM Satellite Radio at every seat and EasyFit overhead bins.”