Arkansas Best Corporation Names Michael R. Johns as General Counsel

(Fort Smith, Arkansas, April 2, 2007) – Arkansas Best Corporation (Nasdaq: ABFS) has announced the employment of Michael R. Johns as Vice President - General Counsel and Corporate Secretary.

Mr. Johns, 48, joins Arkansas Best following a twenty-four year career as a practicing attorney. Since 1991 he has served as a partner in the law firm of Dover Dixon Horne PLLC in Little Rock, AR. Mr. Johns began his legal career in 1983 after earning a J.D. from Southern Methodist University. Mr. Johns holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Arkansas, and he is a certified public accountant.

Arkansas Best Corporation, headquartered in Fort Smith, Arkansas, is a transportation holding company. ABF Freight System, Inc., Arkansas Best’s largest subsidiary, has been in continuous service since 1923. ABF provides transportation of less-than-truckload (“LTL”) general commodities throughout North America. More information is available at www.arkbest.com and www.abf.com.

              Mr. David Humphrey, Director of Investor Relations
              Telephone (479) 785-6200