AirTran's 'Harry Potter' plane unveiled

ORLANDO, Fla., June 16 (UPI) -- AirTran Airways says the Harry Potter 1, its latest themed aircraft, made its first official flight Wednesday from San Antonio to Orlando, Fla.

The event coincided with Friday's planned opening of the Wizarding World of Harry Potter attraction at Universal Studios theme park.

"The Boeing 717 features an exciting illustration depicting a wizard's hand extending a wand, stretching from the back of the plane to the front. The tip of the wand, which appears as though it's illuminated, directs the eye toward The Wizarding World of Harry Potter logo across the side of the fuselage," AirTran said on its Web site.

The plane's first flight transported winners from NBC's "Today" show contest -- "The Wizarding World of Harry Potter at Universal Orlando Resort" -- to Orlando International Airport. Students from San Antonio were among the first to ride on the aircraft.

AirTran also has planes decorated in honor of racecar driver Danica Patrick, pop star Elton John and several professional sports teams.