Regional Airline Goes Back To Its Central Florida Roots

Allegiant Airline said Tuesday that it will consolidate all of its Orlando air service to Orlando Sanford International Airport (KSFB) beginning Feb. 1, 2011.  The company, which currently operates 29 routes to and from the Orlando area, will move the 10 routes it serves from Orlando International Airport (KMCO) to Sanford.

The airline says all of its Orlando operations will be transferred to KSFB by Feb. 4. Allegiant began service to the Orlando area via the Orlando Sanford International Airport May 26, 2005, with nonstop flights to four markets.  Today, the company serves 29 markets to the Orlando area.

"Our customers prefer the convenience and simplicity of Sanford, and we're pleased to respond to their overwhelming requests to return all of our Orlando service to the airport," said Andrew C. Levy, Allegiant Travel Company President.  "Additionally, the substantially lower airport operating costs coupled with the more efficient operating environment at Orlando Sanford made this the right decision for Allegiant."

"I am pleased Allegiant is planning to expand its operations at Orlando Sanford International Airport," said U.S. Rep. John Mica.  "This airport provides great access and convenience to Central Florida for visitors and residents, bringing low-cost, high quality, nonstop service to underserved markets.  As a major carrier at Orlando Sanford, Allegiant's impact on this region is significant and I congratulate them."

By consolidating the operations to a single airport in the Orlando area, Allegiant says it will be able to keep costs down and offer its customers the best travel deals.  Allegiant currently bases five MD-80 series jet aircraft at Orlando International Airport and as of Feb. 1, 2011, the aircraft will move to Orlando Sanford International Airport to support the additional flights.  Allegiant began service from Orlando International Airport Feb. 1, 2010.

FMI: www.allegiant.com