Airline
ATA/American Trans Air (XM)
ATA Airlines, formerly American Trans Air, was a pioneering American low-cost and charter carrier known for providing affordable flights across the US and to Hawaii. Operating primarily out of Chicago-Midway and Indianapolis until 2008, ATA delivered reliable service and value-driven fares to millions of vacationers and business travelers.
Why travelers choose ATA/American Trans Air
- •Pioneered low-cost leisure travel to Hawaii and major US destinations
- •Maintained major operational hubs at Chicago-Midway (MDW) and Indianapolis (IND)
- •Operated a robust fleet primarily consisting of Boeing 737 and 757 aircraft
- •Served as a major military charter operator for the US Department of Defense
- •Ceased commercial passenger operations in April 2008
Fare families
Economy Class
Value-focused standard seating designed for budget-conscious travelers.
- •Comfortable standard leather seating
- •One carry-on bag and personal item included
- •Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages
- •Snacks and meals available for purchase
Premium Economy
Upgraded seating with extra legroom for a more relaxing journey.
- •Additional legroom in preferred seating zones
- •Priority boarding access
- •Complimentary premium snacks on select routes
- •Standard baggage allowances included
Business Class
Premium service offering maximum comfort and priority travel benefits.
- •Wider seating with deeper recline
- •Two complimentary checked bags
- •Priority check-in and luggage handling
- •Complimentary meals and alcoholic beverages
Key policies
Baggage allowance
Historically, ATA allowed one free carry-on bag and one personal item. Checked baggage policies included standard size and weight limits (typically up to 50 lbs), with fees applying for excess or overweight luggage.
Change policy
Ticket changes were subject to the fare rules at the time of booking. Discounted leisure fares typically incurred a change fee plus any fare difference, while unrestricted full-fare tickets allowed flexible adjustments.
Check-in
Passengers were advised to check in at least 90 minutes prior to domestic departures and 2 hours prior to Hawaii or international flights. Airport kiosk and counter check-in options were available at major hubs.
Colombo (CMB) network
ATA/American Trans Air operating flights touching CMB
Sample operating pattern; confirm exact days and times during booking.
From Colombo (CMB)
CMB → DXB
Flight XM 203 • Daily
CMB → SIN
Flight XM 468 • Daily
CMB → LHR
Flight XM 503 • Mon / Wed / Fri
To Colombo (CMB)
DXB → CMB
Flight XM 204 • Daily
SIN → CMB
Flight XM 469 • Daily
LHR → CMB
Flight XM 504 • Tue / Thu / Sat