AirTran's Fornaro throws down the gauntlet -- in Milwaukee

Who knew Milwaukee could breed such intense passion? 

Well it has certainly stirred AirTran CEO Bob Fornaro, who today during the carrier's earnings call spoke very passionately about the carrier's prospects in the market.

Since US regional operator Republic Airways Holdings closed on its purchase of Midwest Fornaro has not shied away from voicing his opinion of Republic's chances of preserving the Midwest brand.

"Republic's not fooling anyone," Fornaro declared today. He argues any business traveller in Milwaukee is savvy enough to know the old Midwest doesn't exist.

"We'll give it a year," says the AirTran chief as he continues to stress Republic has no track record in terms of marketing experience.

Fornaro warns Republic has a real challenge on its hands. They've "done a few paint jobs, cut a few costs and laid off some people....but ultimately they've got to start carrying customers."

Of course Fornaro believes this give AirTran a prime chance to strike. "It gives us an opportunity to make inroads in the market. It really opens the door for us."