Allegiant Air is a U.S. ultra-low-cost carrier focused on providing affordable, non-stop flights from small and mid-sized cities to popular leisure destinations. The airline's business model centers on offering "unbundled" fares, meaning passengers pay a basic, low-cost ticket price and then add on fees for services like seat selection, checked baggage, and carry-on bags.
Founded in 1997 as WestJet Express, the company rebranded to Allegiant Air a year later. It initially faced financial struggles and filed for bankruptcy in 2000. Under the leadership of Maurice J. Gallagher Jr., who took control in 2001, the airline underwent a major overhaul. It shifted its headquarters to Las Vegas and adopted the ultra-low-cost model it's known for today, focusing on linking small, underserved cities to popular vacation spots.
Allegiant's strategy revolves around avoiding direct competition with larger airlines by serving smaller airports and flying less frequently, often just two or three times a week. This allows it to keep operational costs low. The airline also generates a significant portion of its revenue from "ancillary" services, such as hotel and car rental packages, which it sells exclusively through its website. This focus on maximizing revenue from non-ticket sources is a key component of its business model.
Allegiant's fleet consists primarily of Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft. To keep costs down, the airline has historically purchased used aircraft at a significant discount. However, it recently began modernizing its fleet with an order for Boeing 737 MAX planes.
The airline's route map is designed to connect passengers from smaller, regional airports to major leisure destinations in warm-weather states like Florida, California, and Arizona. It serves over 120 destinations, but unlike major carriers, it doesn't operate daily flights on most routes. Instead, it schedules flights on a limited basis, often only on peak travel days.
Allegiant's reputation is often mixed. On one hand, many customers appreciate the convenience of non-stop flights from their local airport and the low base fares, which can make leisure travel more accessible. Positive reviews often highlight the friendly staff and the simplicity of the travel experience for short, point-to-point trips.
On the other hand, the airline has been criticized for its numerous fees, which can quickly add up and negate the low initial ticket price. Customer service is another common point of contention, particularly regarding communication during flight delays or cancellations. Because of its limited flight schedule on many routes, a cancelled flight can leave passengers stranded for days with few rebooking options. For travelers who understand the "no-frills" model and are prepared for potential inconveniences, Allegiant can be a cost-effective choice.
