ORLANDO, Fla. -- AirTran Airways launched a partnership that allows A-Plus Rewards members to earn credits toward free travel when renting from Hertz.

A-Plus Rewards members can earn double credits on qualifying Hertz leisure weekend and weekly rentals through March 31.

Through the program, A-Plus Rewards members earn a half credit for qualifying rentals of up to four days. Exclusive to AirTran Airways, qualifying car rentals of five days or more earn one full credit towards a free flight.

"AirTran Airways is pleased to partner with a high-quality organization such as Hertz, enabling us to offer an even more flexible rewards program to our loyal customers," said Tad Hutcheson, AirTran Airways' director of marketing. "Our A-Plus Rewards members now have an opportunity to earn a free ticket quicker than ever."

To earn credits, A-Plus Rewards members must provide an A-Plus member number at the time of reservation, rental or return. Members can also receive discounts and benefits with the AirTran Airways A-Plus Rewards discount number (CDP#) 1259680.

"Hertz is excited to announce its partnership with AirTran Airways and welcomes A-Plus Rewards members to earn credits and experience first-hand the benefits of renting from Hertz," said Elliot Friedman, Hertz vivision vice president for travel industry and partnership marketing.

By earning credits per each one-way trip, A-Plus Rewards members can earn a one-way coach ticket after only four roundtrip flights in coach or three in business class, with twice that amount needed for a roundtrip ticket. An upgrade to business class for a one-way flight can be earned after two roundtrip flights in coach and 1 1/2 in business class.

In the near future, cardholders of the AirTran Airways A-Plus Visa will have the opportunity to earn bonus credits through special offers.

To enroll in the program, customers are encouraged to contact AirTran Airways at airtran.com or 1-800-AIR-TRAN.