The discount airline already has made a name for itself by servicing regional airports throughout the U.S.A. with popular vacation destinations like Las Vegas and Orlando, Florida.
In 2010, it introduces two new hubs that will expand its offerings.
New Allegiant Air Hub in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Beginning April 27, 2010, Allegiant Air will establish a new base at Gerald R. Ford International Airport in Grand Rapids, Michigan. This location will service not only western Michigan, but also northern cities in the state that formerly had to trek to Detroit for direct flights to hot vacation destinations.
The airline already operates flights from Grand Rapids to Las Vegas, Phoenix-Mesa, and three Florida destinations (Orlando, Tampa and Ft. Lauderdale). Beginning on April 27, the carrier will base two 150-seat MD-80 aircraft at the airport, according to a press release, allowing it to expand its schedule to 34 flights a week to and from this airport.
New Route from Grand Rapids to Myrtle Beach
Starting April 30, 2010, Allegiant Air will also inaugurate nonstop service from Grand Rapids to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
Myrtle Beach is a popular destination for golfers, with more than 100 courses to choose from. The resort town is also great for vacationing families, both for its numerous beaches and other water activities. Depending on the time of year, it can also be a great spot for budget travelers looking for a relaxing ocean-side getaway.
New Allegiant Air Hub at Orlando International Airport
For years, Allegiant Air has operated flights to and from the Orlando, Florida, area via the Orlando-Sanford Airport, which sits on the northern edge of the city. But while it provided low cost flights for vacationers to the Orlando area, the truth is Sanford is at least 50 minutes from the main theme park areas of Universal Studios, SeaWorld and Walt Disney World. This meant the need to rent a car or incur a very expensive taxi ride to the tourist areas of town.
Starting February 1, 2010, the airline began flying out of the more conveniently located Orlando International Airport (OIA).
For the initial roll-out of new flights, the carrier is starting with servicing ten cities with flights to and from OIA. These airports are: Allentown, PA; Des Moines, IA; Grand Rapids, MI; Greenville/Sartanburg, SC; Huntington, WV; Knoxville, TN; Lexington, KY; Springfield, MO; Tri-Cities, TN; and Youngstown, OH.
By mid-March, all the above routes will be in service, with the carrier having five 150-seat MD-80 jets based out of OIA.
How to Book Allegiant Air
According to the press releases, the new hubs and routes will bring the total to 69 cities that Allegiant Air services in the United States.
To book flights on any of the new routes (which will likely have special low introductory fares), or even existing ones, visit Allegiant Air online or call 702-505-8888. Allegiant flights can also be booked at the airline's airport counters.
It should be noted that Allegiant does charge fees for online or phone bookings, as well as checked bags and other services. Please read the Suite101 Budget Travel article "Pros and Cons of Flying Allegiant Air" for more information on these.
Michelle Snow - Michelle Snow been a freelance journalist and photographer for over twenty years, specializing in travel and entertainment. She got her ...
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