Allegiant Air Expands Florida Network with Six Strategic Bases

Allegiant Air is experiencing significant growth as it expands its presence in Florida, bolstered by a year of strong financial performance and accolades. The low-cost airline recently reported better-than-expected earnings and was recognized as America’s Best Low-Cost Carrier by SkyTrax for the second consecutive year. In January, The Wall Street Journal ranked Allegiant second among U.S. airlines, ahead of all major legacy carriers. The airline achieved a remarkable 99.89% controllable completion rate in 2025, ranking first for the fewest cancellations and excelling in baggage handling.

With a rapidly growing fleet and an increasing network, Allegiant has established six operational bases in Florida, each contributing strategically to its business model. This expansion aligns with its focus on leisure travel, particularly to and from the Sunshine State.

Strategic Bases Across Florida

Allegiant’s six Florida bases collectively offer over a million available seats, catering to a robust market of leisure travelers. Here is a closer look at each base, including its significance and performance metrics as of 2025.

Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) serves as a vital hub on the Emerald Coast. This unique facility operates as a joint-use airport alongside Eglin Air Force Base, attracting aviation enthusiasts. In 2025, Allegiant’s operations from VPS included 33 destinations with 5,756 annual flights and nearly 1 million available seats. Notably, Allegiant holds a commanding 31% market share, outperforming its closest competitor, Delta Air Lines, at 24%. The airline is expanding its offerings with new routes to Columbia, Missouri, and Denver, Colorado.

Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) acts as a critical gateway to Florida’s Sun Coast. Allegiant has emerged as the largest carrier at SRQ since beginning operations there in 2018. In 2025, the airline operated 36 destinations with 7,140 annual flights and over 1.28 million available seats, achieving a 22% market share. Following the addition of nine new routes, Allegiant surpassed a million annual passengers for the first time.

At Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Allegiant faces intense competition from larger budget carriers. Despite holding only a 3% market share, the airline provides nearly 1.5 million seats annually to 36 destinations. Allegiant specializes in offering nonstop flights to secondary cities, maintaining a niche presence in this bustling hub.

Punta Gorda Airport (PGD) serves as an alternative gateway to Fort Myers, experiencing substantial growth in recent years. Allegiant dominates this market with a remarkable 99% market share, operating 51 destinations with 10,756 annual flights and nearly 1.9 million available seats. Despite challenges with its Sunseeker Resort project, Allegiant’s operations at PGD have primarily thrived.

St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE) stands out as Allegiant’s largest base on Florida’s west coast. In 2025, the airport welcomed 18,828 annual flights and an impressive 3.37 million available seats, with Allegiant holding a 99% market share. The airline continues to expand its routes, anticipating further growth in passenger numbers.

Lastly, Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) serves as Allegiant’s alternative hub for travelers heading to America’s theme park capital. The airport ranks among the top 30 busiest globally in flight operations. In 2025, Allegiant operated 20,986 flights with a market share of 99%, offering 68 destinations and maintaining a robust presence despite competition from Arajet.

Allegiant Air’s strategic positioning within Florida’s aviation market reflects its commitment to expanding leisure travel options. With plans for continued growth and increasing operational capabilities, the airline is poised to strengthen its influence in the low-cost travel sector while maintaining competitive advantages across its various bases.