The first AirTran Airways flight from Atlanta was given a warm Bermuda welcome as it touched down at the LF Wade International Airport this afternoon.The first-class lounge was like a who's who of the Island's tourism industry as local dignitaries lined up to welcome passengers including the Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders.The 20 cheerleaders, dressed in red and black hotpants, arrived waving their glittery pom poms saying they were "thrilled and excited" to be in Bermuda. They are here for the weekend to shoot their 2012 calendar on the Island's beaches.Transport Minister Terry Lister, who spoke at a press conference surrounded by the cheerleaders, said: "We are one of the best connected little islands in the world."Mr Lister added that he wished the cheerleaders could join him for all his press conferences as he'd be a huge success regardless of what he said.Tourism Minister Patrice Minors, who was on the flight from Atlanta to Bermuda, said the passengers had arrived just in time for the beach and swizzle season.She said Atlanta was "an important gateway city" for Bermuda with both locals and tourists expected to take advantage of the airline's new route.Also on board today's flight was a delegation of business owners called The Buckhead Coalition. The Chamber of Commerce type organisation from Atlanta has arranged a "sister community" agreement with Bermuda.AirTran Airways flight to Atlanta means five gateway cities are now served by direct low-cost airlines.The flight from Atlanta was full and arrived on time at about 2.30pm.