Allegiant Air is experiencing significant growth as it solidifies its position in the competitive airline market. The low-cost carrier recently reported strong financial results and received recognition as America’s Best Low-Cost Carrier from SkyTrax for the second consecutive year. This recognition follows commendable rankings from prestigious outlets, including a second-place position among U.S. airlines in The Wall Street Journal, which places Allegiant ahead of major legacy carriers.
In 2025, Allegiant achieved a remarkable 99.89% controllable completion rate, leading the industry in both the fewest cancellations and baggage handling. The airline also did not involuntarily bump any passengers during the year. As part of its growth strategy, Allegiant plans to merge with Sun Country Airlines, a move anticipated to receive approval from the U.S. Department of Justice later this year. This expansion is complemented by the airline’s increased focus on Florida, with six operating bases across the state.
Strategic Locations in Florida
Allegiant’s Florida operations feature six strategically placed bases, each contributing to the company’s overall capacity and market reach. According to data from Cirium for 2025, these bases have collectively over 6 million available seats.
**Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS)** has become a key player in the Emerald Coast region. This joint-use facility shares runways with the military and has seen air service more than double since pre-pandemic levels. In 2025, Allegiant operated 5,756 flights to 33 destinations from VPS, representing a market share of 31%. The airport’s dedicated Concourse C, which opened in 2022 after an $11.4 million investment, reflects Allegiant’s commitment to the area.
**Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ)** serves as the gateway to Florida’s Sun Coast. The airport welcomed a record 4.5 million visitors in 2025, largely due to Allegiant’s expansion. The airline became the largest carrier at SRQ, offering 7,140 annual flights to 36 destinations and achieving a market share of 22%. The recent opening of the new $100 million Concourse A further enhances passenger experience.
**Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL)** operates as a major hub for low-cost carriers in South Florida. Although Allegiant holds only a 3% market share here, it provides nearly 1.5 million seats annually to 36 destinations, focusing on secondary markets like Asheville and Knoxville where competition is limited.
**Punta Gorda Airport (PGD)** offers a quieter alternative to Fort Myers International Airport. Allegiant dominates this airport with a staggering 99% market share, providing 10,756 flights to 51 destinations. This growth has been remarkable, with passenger numbers reaching 2.3 million in 2025. Allegiant’s attempt to develop a luxury resort in the area faced challenges, leading to significant financial losses and a sale to Blackstone Real Estate for $200 million.
**St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE)** serves as Allegiant’s largest base on Florida’s west coast. The airport has experienced substantial growth, welcoming 2.8 million passengers in 2025, a 17% increase from the previous year. Allegiant operates 18,828 flights to 62 destinations, boasting a market share of 99%. Upcoming routes are set to further bolster this growth.
**Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB)**, Allegiant’s largest Florida hub, has seen passenger numbers double over the past two decades. The airport, which ranks among the world’s busiest for flight operations, is crucial for Allegiant’s strategy, offering 20,986 flights to 68 destinations and commanding a 99% market share.
As Allegiant Air continues to expand its footprint in Florida, the airline is positioned to leverage its successful strategy of focusing on leisure travel and secondary markets. The combination of robust operational performance, strategic partnerships, and a growing fleet suggests that Allegiant will maintain its upward trajectory in the coming years.
