U.S. ULCC Allegiant Air is adding Orlando International Airport (MCO) to its network with three routes commencing in May 2024.

The Las Vegas-based airline, which specializes in connecting smaller U.S. markets to popular leisure destinations, is the dominant carrier at Orlando Sanford Airport (SFB), an alternate central Florida airport located about 35 mi. from MCO. Allegiant offers more than 30 routes from SFB, a longtime base, and is the only airline operating to the airport year-round. Canada’s Flair Airlines operates seasonal winter sun routes to SFB.

Allegiant has long touted SFB as a more convenient, less stressful option for passengers compared to crowded MCO, but has now decided to add service to the larger hub as well. Drew Wells, Allegiant’s senior vice president of revenue and planning and chief revenue officer, said in a statement that adding MCO “makes us a more dynamic airline,” adding: “We are committed to opening the door to accessible travel in as many markets as possible.”

The three destinations to which Allegiant will operate at least 2X-weekly from MCO include Asheville, North Carolina (kicking off May 3); Allentown, Pennsylvania (commencing May 16); and Knoxville, Tennessee (starting May 17).

Allegiant will also add a new route from Orlando Sanford, with 2X-weekly service to Rapid City, South Dakota, starting May 15.

Flights between Los Angeles International Airport and Billings, Montana, to be flown 2X-weekly, are among a roster of routes the carrier will open in May 2024. 

Other new 2X-weekly routes to be launched by Allegiant that month are: St. Pete-Clearwater, Florida, to Bismark, North Dakota; Nashville, Tennessee to Rockford, Illinois; Las Vegas to Chattanooga, Tennessee; Washington Dulles to Punta Gorda, Florida; Newark, New Jersey, to Appleton, Wisconsin; Fort Lauderdale, Florida to Traverse City, Michigan; and Austin, Texas to Eugene, Oregon.