American Express OPEN announced the expansion of its OPEN Savings program through a new partnership with AirTran Airways, a leading low-cost airline designed for business travelers. OPEN Savings gives small business owners automatic savings virtually every time they use an American Express Business Card to make purchases at any OPEN Savings partner.

Through the partnership, small business cardmembers can automatically receive a 5% discount on direct ticket purchases on all AirTran Airways flights. AirTran Airways operates over 700 flights a day to more than 65 destinations. OPEN Savings is sponsoring a free onboard Wi-Fi promotion for all AirTran Airways passengers on all flights from March 13 through March 27, 2010, to help launch this new partnership.

“Time-pressed small business travelers who are weary of coupons or special offer codes now have a better and simpler way to save, with OPEN Savings” said Kirk Fitzsimmons, VP OPEN Savings. “With this new partnership, small businesses can reduce their airline expenses just by using their American Express Business Card.”

“As the only airline with Business Class and Wi-Fi on every flight, we are the perfect partner for OPEN Savings members,” said Tad Hutcheson, AirTran Airways’ vice president of marketing and sales. “OPEN Savings members can now enjoy a significant discount on our everyday low fares while staying productive in the air and reaping the benefits of affordable Business Class.”

OPEN Savings has delivered more than $400 million in savings to American Express Business Cardmembers since 2004. OPEN Savings eliminates the need for offer codes, coupons or program enrollment and provides automatic savings from well-known brands. Savings can also be combined with other marketplace offers or volume discount pricing that businesses may already be receiving from program partners.

OPEN Savings is a benefit embedded within all American Express Business Cards. American Express OPEN Cardmembers simply need to use their credit or charge card for purchases with any OPEN Savings partner to take advantage of discounts. The savings will automatically appear on the Cardmember’s monthly statement and can be tracked at www.opensavings.com. OPEN Savings discounts are calculated on the full transaction amount, including any taxes and surcharges. Terms and conditions apply.