Independence Air announced today it will introduce new non-stop service from Knoxville's McGhee-Tyson Airport to Orlando International Airport beginning Oct. 13.

"What a great vote of confidence in Knoxville that Independence Air, after just a few weeks of doing business being here, has decided to expand its service," Mayor Bill Haslam said.

Independence Air began in July offering non-stop service from Knoxville to Washington-Dulles Airport.

The mayor noted that past experience showed that while Orlando was a popular destination for Knoxville travelers, the reverse was true as well.

"This new service will be very much welcomed by our regional tourism industry," he said.

Knoxville is one of two cities, the other being Columbia, S.C., where Independence Air is expanding its route.

"Community reaction to low-fare air service in both Knoxville and Columbia has been particularly enthusiastic, and we're excited to introduce non-stops to Orlando as another new way to expand our Independence Air schedule in both markets," said Independence Air Chairman and CEO Kerry Skeen. "We've said all along that our plan is to challenge the status quo in the airline industry, and today's announcement should be seen as another example of our mission to satisfy the increasing demand for low-fare service across America."

The schedule from Knoxville will include two daily non-stops to Orlando, with introductory 14-day advance purchase fares as low as $39 one way for tickets purchased at www.FLYi.com by Aug. 27 for travel by Jan. 15, 2005.

Following the introductory-fare period, fares between Knoxville and Orlando will range from $60 - 141 one way. Some restrictions do apply.

Independence Air flights will depart Knoxville at 7 a.m. and 3:10 p.m. daily, arriving in Orlando at 8:45 a.m. and 4:55 p.m. Flights leave Orlando at 1 p.m. and 9:15 p.m. arriving in Knoxville at 2:40 p.m. and 10:55 p.m.