Allegiant Air is experiencing significant growth as it expands its operations across Florida. The low-cost carrier recently reported better-than-expected financial results and was recognized by SkyTrax as America’s Best Low-Cost Carrier for the second consecutive year. In a recent ranking by The Wall Street Journal, Allegiant claimed the second spot among U.S. airlines, surpassing all three major legacy carriers. The airline achieved a remarkable controllable completion rate of 99.89% in 2025 and led the industry in the fewest cancellations and baggage handling, marking a strong performance overall.
Allegiant’s strategic focus on Florida has resulted in the establishment of six operational bases throughout the state, each contributing to its robust growth in leisure travel. With over a million available seats from each of these bases, the airline is poised to capitalize on the continued demand for travel to the Sunshine State.
Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport: The Heart of the Emerald Coast
Located within Eglin Air Force Base, Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) serves as a unique dual-use facility. The airport has seen air service more than double since pre-pandemic levels, making it one of the fastest-growing airports in the United States.
In 2025, Allegiant operated 5,756 annual flights from VPS to 33 destinations, with a market share of 31%. The airport’s most frequent route is to Cincinnati Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), and Allegiant plans to expand its service further, adding new routes to Columbia, Missouri, and Denver, Colorado.
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport: Gateway to Florida’s Sun Coast
Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport (SRQ) is another key base for Allegiant, primarily serving leisure travelers. The airport recorded a remarkable 4.5 million visitors in 2025, a significant increase attributed to Allegiant’s growth since it began operations there in 2018.
In 2025, Allegiant became the largest carrier at SRQ, operating 7,140 annual flights to 36 destinations. The airline accounted for 22% of the market share, focusing on cities in the Midwest. With nine new routes added over the year and the opening of a new $100 million terminal, Allegiant is well-positioned to continue its expansion.
Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport: Competing in a Major Hub
Operating as a vital hub for low-cost carriers in South Florida, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) presents a unique challenge for Allegiant. In 2025, Allegiant’s market share at FLL was only 3%, but it offered nearly 1.5 million seats to 36 destinations, primarily focusing on secondary cities.
Despite competing against larger carriers like Spirit Airlines and JetBlue, Allegiant has carved out a niche by offering nonstop flights to cities such as Asheville and Knoxville, catering to travelers seeking sunny getaways.
Punta Gorda Airport: The Alternative Gateway to Fort Myers
Punta Gorda Airport (PGD), known for its relaxed atmosphere and lack of jet bridges, is a smaller gateway to Southwest Florida. Allegiant holds an impressive 99% market share at PGD, which saw 2.3 million passengers in 2025, a 19% increase from the previous year.
Despite its success at PGD, Allegiant faced challenges with its Sunseeker Resort, leading to the sale of the property to Blackstone Real Estate for $200 million after substantial losses.
St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport: Allegiant’s Largest Florida Base
St. Pete–Clearwater International Airport (PIE) is Allegiant’s largest base on Florida’s west coast. The airport, with a rich history dating back to the first commercial airline flight, welcomed 2.8 million passengers in 2025, benefiting from Allegiant’s continued growth.
With a market share of 99%, Allegiant operated 18,828 flights to 62 destinations from PIE, and has plans for further growth in 2026, including new routes to Atlantic City and Huntsville.
Orlando Sanford International Airport: The Alternative Gateway to Theme Parks
Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) serves as Allegiant’s largest hub in Florida, offering an alternative to the busier Orlando International Airport. SFB has become a significant player in Allegiant’s operations, with a market share of 99% and nearly 20,986 flights in 2025.
Allegiant continues to expand its offerings at SFB, with new routes planned and a focus on leisure travel to America’s theme park capital. The airport’s significant role in Allegiant’s network underlines the airline’s strategy of targeting underserved markets.
In summary, Allegiant Air’s continued expansion in Florida through its six operational bases reflects its commitment to the leisure travel market. The airline’s impressive growth metrics and strategic positioning place it among the leading carriers in the region, setting the stage for further success in the coming years.
