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Allegiant Air is not just an air carrier, but a true bridge between smaller American cities and world-class popular resorts. This airline has chosen a unique niche: instead of competing for business travellers in congested metropolises, it offers direct and affordable flights to destinations where the sun shines and a holiday atmosphere prevails. If your goal is to save on the ticket to spend more on entertainment during your holiday, the "sunny" routes of this ultra-low-cost carrier are created just for you.

History and Philosophy of the Company

Founded in 1997 under the name WestJet Express and renamed a year later, Allegiant Air has grown into one of the most profitable carriers in the USA. The company's mission is simple and attractive: to make holidays accessible to everyone. The airline's business model is built on the Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier (ULCC) concept. This means the base fare includes only the flight, while all additional services—from seat selection to carry-on baggage—are paid for by the passenger at their discretion. This approach allows for exceptionally low ticket prices.

Flight Geography

Allegiant Air's route network is focused on connecting the "Heart of America" with warm regions. The airline specialises in flights from small regional airports to major tourist hubs in Florida, California, Arizona, and Nevada. For example, one of the most popular routes connects the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, with Cincinnati. The airline also provides convenient links between the north and south, operating flights from Denver to Knoxville or from the metropolis of New York to the same cosy Knoxville, opening access to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for tourists.

For lovers of beach holidays on the East Coast, convenient flights are available, for instance, from sunny Sarasota to historic Boston, allowing Florida residents to easily reach New England and vice versa.

Fleet and Safety

Currently, the Allegiant fleet consists primarily of reliable liners from the Airbus A319 and A320 family. These aircraft have proven themselves as comfortable and efficient machines for medium-haul flights. The company pays close attention to fleet modernisation and technical maintenance, strictly following the regulations of the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Despite its budget status, flight safety issues remain an unconditional priority for Allegiant, confirmed by regular inspections and investments in pilot training.

To resolve issues related to flights, booking changes, or baggage, Allegiant Air offers several communication channels. As this is a budget airline, the main emphasis is on self-management of services via the internet, although traditional contact methods are also available for passengers.

Main Contacts

• Official Website: www.allegiantair.com
• Customer Support and Reservations Centre: +1 (702) 505-8888. This number is used for most inquiries, including ticket purchases and consultations. Please note that this is a US number, so the call is charged as international.
• For the hearing impaired (TTY): 711 (valid within the US).
• Email: The airline does not use a public email for operational passenger support. For written inquiries, you must use the online chat or the special feedback form in the "Contact Us" section on the official website.
• Mobile App: The Allegiant app (available on the App Store and Google Play) is the most convenient way to manage your trip, add baggage, and receive boarding passes.

Social Media

The airline actively maintains pages on social networks, where news about new routes and special offers is often published:

• Facebook: Allegiant
• X (Twitter): @Allegiant
• Instagram: @allegiant
• LinkedIn: Allegiant Travel Company

Offices and Representatives

• Headquarters: The company's main office is located in the city of Las Vegas, Nevada. Mailing address: 1201 N. Town Center Dr., Las Vegas, NV 89144.
• Airport Counters: The airline does not have city sales offices. Personal communication with representatives is only possible at check-in counters at departure airports. It is important to remember that counters open strictly according to the schedule of specific flights (usually 2–3 hours before departure) and close after boarding is complete.

Important: Contact details and support service hours may change. We strongly recommend checking current information on the airline's official website directly before your journey.

Baggage Rules: What You Need to Know Before Flying

Travelling with Allegiant Air requires careful planning, as the airline operates on an ultra-low-cost model. This means the base fare includes a minimal set of services, and in most cases, you will have to pay separately for baggage (both carry-on and suitcases). To avoid unexpected expenses at the airport, we recommend familiarising yourself with the rules in advance and paying for baggage at the ticket booking stage.

Carry-on Allowance

Allegiant's policy regarding items in the aircraft cabin is strict but transparent. Each passenger has the right to bring only one personal item on board for free. If you require more space, you will have to pay extra for an additional bag.

• Personal Item (Free): This can be a handbag, backpack, or laptop bag. The main condition is that the item must fit under the seat in front of you.
  Maximum dimensions: 17.8 x 38.1 x 40.6 cm (7 x 15 x 16 inches).
• Carry-on Bag (Paid): A bag or small suitcase placed in the overhead bin. The number of spaces is limited (one bag per passenger) and is paid for additionally.
  Maximum dimensions: 22.9 x 35.6 x 55.9 cm (9 x 14 x 22 inches), including wheels and handles.

Checked Baggage and Weight Restrictions

Checked baggage is usually not included in the price of an Allegiant Air ticket. You can register up to 4 bags per passenger for a separate fee. The cost depends on the route; for example, the price for baggage on a flight from Las Vegas to Cincinnati may differ from the cost on other directions.

Important! Pay special attention to the weight limit. At Allegiant Air, it is lower than that of most classic airlines:

• Maximum weight per bag: 18 kg (40 lbs).
• Maximum size: 203 cm (80 inches) linear dimensions (length + width + height).

If you are used to the standard 23 kg (50 lbs), be careful: exceeding the weight by even a couple of kilograms will lead to a significant surcharge at the airport.

Excess Baggage Fees

Paying for baggage directly at the airport always costs more than online. Furthermore, fines apply for exceeding weight and dimensions:

• Overweight from 18.2 to 31.7 kg (41–70 lbs): an additional fee is charged for each bag.
• Overweight from 31.8 to 45.3 kg (71–100 lbs): an increased rate is charged. Bags heavier than 45.3 kg (100 lbs) are not accepted for carriage.
• Oversized baggage: if linear dimensions exceed 203 cm, an additional fee is also charged.

Special Items and Sports Equipment

The airline allows the transport of sports equipment and musical instruments, but under certain conditions. Since Allegiant often flies to tourist destinations, for example, operating flights from Denver (popular with skiers) or to sunny Sarasota (for golf lovers), equipment rules are relevant for many passengers.

• Sports equipment (golf clubs, skis, snowboards, fishing gear) counts as one piece of checked baggage. Standard baggage fees apply.
• Equipment must be packed in hard protective containers.
• Large items may require additional payment for size, but overweight fees are often waived for certain types of sports equipment (check details on the website before departure).
• Strollers and car seats are transported free of charge when travelling with a child.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

Strict restrictions apply for safety purposes. In carry-on baggage, liquids are allowed only in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag. Lithium batteries, electronic cigarettes, and power banks can be transported only in carry-on baggage — checking them in is strictly prohibited.

Explosives, flammable liquids, and sharp objects are prohibited for transport in both the cabin and luggage. If you are flying from New York and plan to bring souvenirs, ensure they comply with TSA (Transportation Security Administration) rules.

Tips for Efficient Packing

1. Pay in advance: Adding baggage during booking on the website is the cheapest method. At the airport, the price can double.
2. Weigh at home: Remember the limit of 18 kg (40 lbs). Use portable scales to avoid fines.
3. Use soft bags: Backpacks and soft bags are easier to place in the bin or under the seat than hard suitcases.
4. Check dimensions: Allegiant airports have sizers (frames for checking size). If your carry-on does not fit in the frame, it will have to be checked in for a high fee (Gate Check Fee).

Travelling with Pets: A Complete Guide

Allegiant Air understands that pets are full members of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable as possible. The airline adheres to a "Pet Friendly" policy, allowing small cats and dogs in the cabin. This is a great opportunity for those flying, for example, to sunny Las Vegas or planning a holiday in Florida and do not want to leave their four-legged friend at home.

Transport Options

In the Cabin (Carry-on)

This is the primary and only method of transporting pets on Allegiant Air flights for tourists (with the exception of service dogs). Your pet will stay next to you throughout the flight.

• Carrier Dimensions: A soft carrier must not exceed dimensions of 22.9 x 40.6 x 48.3 cm (9 x 16 x 19 inches). It must fit freely under the seat in front of you.
• Permitted Animals: Only domestic cats and dogs.
• Placement Requirements: The animal must be able to stand and turn around freely inside the container.
• Limit per Passenger: One passenger may transport one carrier. Up to two pets are allowed in one carrier if they fit comfortably and are of the same species.
• Age: The animal must be older than 8 weeks.

In the Cargo Hold (Checked Baggage)

It is important to know that Allegiant Air does not transport animals in the aircraft's cargo hold. This is due to safety policies and the low-cost operating model focused on short and medium flights with quick aircraft turnaround.

• Availability: Service unavailable. All pets must be in the cabin.
• Exceptions: None for regular passenger flights.

As Cargo

The airline does not provide services for shipping animals as unaccompanied cargo. If you have a large dog that does not fit in a carrier under the seat, you will need to consider other carriers or specialised transport companies.

• Availability: Service not provided.

Necessary Documents

Although document requirements are simplified for flights within the USA, it is recommended to have a standard set of papers to avoid issues during random checks or at the destination.

• Health Certificate: It is recommended to have a certificate from a veterinarian issued no earlier than 10–30 days before departure (especially important for interstate flights).
• Vaccination Certificate: Proof of a current rabies vaccination is mandatory.
• Veterinary Passport: Desirable to have with you.
• For International Flights: International veterinary certificates complying with the arrival country's rules are required (currently, Allegiant mainly operates domestic flights).

Cost of Services

Transporting an animal is not included in the ticket price and is paid separately. The payment is non-refundable.

• Cabin Transport: Approximately 50–100 USD per flight segment (one way).
• Payment: It is recommended to pay for the service in advance when booking the ticket, as space for pets on board is limited.

Tips for Flight Preparation

To ensure the flight goes smoothly for both you and your furry companion, follow these simple recommendations:

• Choosing a Carrier: Use soft-sided carriers — they are easier to place under the seat.
• Adaptation: Let the animal get used to the carrier a few days before the flight.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal heavily less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness.
• Walking: Be sure to walk the dog before entering the terminal. Airports usually have special zones (Pet Relief Areas).

Restrictions and Prohibitions

• Prohibited Animals: Rodents, reptiles, birds, and other types of animals are not accepted for transport.
• Behaviour: The animal must be calm, show no aggression, and make no loud noises. Aggressive animals may be denied boarding.
• Remaining in Cabin: It is strictly forbidden to take the animal out of the carrier during the flight, taxiing, takeoff, and landing.
• Service Dogs: Special rules apply for officially registered Service Animals, and they can be transported in the cabin free of charge without a carrier, but require prior notification and completion of DOT forms.

Please note: airline rules may change without prior notice. We strongly recommend contacting Allegiant Air or visiting their official website before purchasing tickets to clarify current requirements.

Allways Rewards Loyalty Programme

Allegiant Air offers travellers its own loyalty programme called Allways Rewards. This is a modern and maximally simplified system created specifically for tourists, not business travellers: it allows you to accumulate points for every dollar spent, rather than for flight distance. The programme is ideal for those who plan regular flights to popular holiday destinations, such as Las Vegas or Florida resorts, and want to receive transparent benefits without complex calculations.

Participation Tiers

Unlike classic airlines, Allegiant (G4) has moved away from a complex hierarchy of statuses (Silver, Gold, etc.). The system is built on the principle of "equality for all", however, co-branded cardholders receive privileges corresponding to elite status:

• Allways Rewards Member (Basic): Available to everyone after free registration. Gives the right to accumulate points for flights and services.
• Allegiant World Mastercard Holder (Privileged): Analogue to the "Elite" level. Includes Priority Boarding and a complimentary beverage during the flight.

How to Accumulate Points

The point accrual system in Allways Rewards is tied to the amount you pay, making the accumulation process predictable:

• Flights and Services: You receive 1 point for every $1 spent on air tickets, baggage, and seat selection.
• Package Tours: Accrual of 1 point for every $1 when booking hotels and car rentals through Allegiant (for amounts from $500).
• Credit Card: Cardholders receive 3 points per $1 on purchases at Allegiant and 1 point for everyday spending.
• Bonus Promotions: Promotions with increased point accrual for certain routes are held periodically.

How to Spend Points

The main advantage of the programme is complete freedom in using accumulated funds, without restrictions on dates or the availability of special seats:

• Exchange Rate: 1 point equals 1 cent discount (100 points = $1).
• Any Flights: Points can pay for a ticket on any flight, at any time, with "No blackout dates".
• Full or Partial Payment: You can pay for the entire ticket with points or only part of it, paying the rest by card.
• Additional Services: Points are accepted for payment of baggage, seat selection, and other fees.

Alliance Participation

Allegiant Air positions itself as an independent ultra-low-cost carrier and adheres to the following policy:

• No Alliance: The company is NOT part of global alliances like Star Alliance, SkyTeam, or oneworld.
• Partners: The airline focuses on direct flights and cooperates with ground partners (hotels, car rental), rather than other air carriers.

How to Join

You can join the loyalty programme quickly and for free:

• Go to the official website Allegiantair.com.
• Click the "Sign Up" or "Join Allways Rewards" button in the top corner.
• Fill out a simple form (name, email, password).
• Your member number will be generated instantly and available in your personal account or mobile app.

Travel Classes: Comfort Without Extra Costs

Allegiant Air operates on an ultra-low-cost model, so the concept of service classes is simplified to the maximum. There is no business class or first class on board in the traditional sense. The entire cabin is a single Economy class. This solution allows the airline to set record-low ticket prices, making travel accessible to everyone.

However, even within a single class, passengers have a choice of comfort levels:

• Standard Seating: Regular seats with a pitch (distance between seat backs) of about 76 cm (30 inches). This is quite sufficient for short flights, for example, if you are flying from the metropolis of New York to cosy Knoxville.
• Legroom+ (Seats with extra space): For an additional fee, you can choose seats with increased legroom of up to 86 cm (34 inches). Usually, they are located in the front of the cabin and at emergency exits. This is an excellent choice for longer flights, such as the journey from Las Vegas to Cincinnati.

Seat Configuration and Amenities

The Allegiant fleet consists of Airbus A319 and A320 family aircraft. The seat layout in the cabin is classic 3-3 (three seats on the left, an aisle, three seats on the right). Seats are made of practical leather and feature an ergonomic design.

An important feature: seats on board Allegiant do not recline. They have a "pre-reclined" backrest. Although this may seem unusual, this design has advantages: the passenger in front will never lower their seatback onto your knees, preserving your personal space throughout the flight.

Food and Beverages

Like most low-cost carriers, Allegiant Air does not provide complimentary food or drinks. The "Buy on Board" concept offers passengers a varied menu for a separate fee:

• Snacks: The assortment usually includes crisps, nuts, biscuits, chocolate bars, and sets with cheese and crackers (Snack Packs).
• Beverages: Carbonated water, juices, coffee, and tea.
• Premium Drinks: For those wishing to relax at the start of their holiday, a selection of other refreshments is available.

Payment on board is accepted only via bank cards (cashless payment). We recommend having a snack before departure or bringing permitted food items with you, especially if you are flying with children, for example, from Sarasota airport to Boston.

Entertainment and Connectivity (Wi-Fi)

Allegiant Air adheres to a policy of digital detox and economy. There are no built-in screens in seatbacks on board, and there is also no Wi-Fi or power outlets for charging gadgets.

To avoid boredom during the flight, especially on flights from Denver:

• Download films, music, or books to your smartphone or tablet in advance.
• Be sure to fully charge your devices before boarding the plane or bring a portable battery (power bank).

Special Services

The airline strives to ensure comfort for all categories of passengers while observing its safety and service rules:

• Passengers with disabilities: Allegiant provides a full range of assistance services at the airport and during boarding/disembarking (wheelchairs, escort) in accordance with US legislation. The service must be requested in advance when booking or through support.
• Unaccompanied children: Unlike many classic airlines, Allegiant Air does not provide an Unaccompanied Minor service. Children up to 14 years inclusive cannot travel alone. Teenagers 15 years and older can fly independently but must have photo identification (passport or ID).
• Families with children: If you want to be guaranteed to sit next to family members, it is strongly recommended to pay for seat selection in advance. The automatic allocation system may seat passengers in different parts of the cabin, even if tickets were bought in one booking.

The Allegiant Air route network is built to connect small regional airports with popular holiday destinations without unnecessary transfers. The carrier's main hub is Las Vegas, from where a large number of departures are made, but the flight geography covers many states, offering tourists convenient direct flights at affordable prices.

Secrets of Budget Booking

Travelling with a low-cost carrier is an art of planning. To get the maximum benefit from flights with Allegiant Air, remember that their prices work on a dynamic principle: the fewer seats remain, the more expensive the ticket. The optimal time to purchase is 3–4 weeks before departure. Note that the airline often operates flights not daily, but only a few times a week. For example, the route from Denver to Knoxville may be available only on certain days, so start planning your holiday by checking the schedule on the website.

Online Check-in and Mobile App

The main tip for saving money and time is to avoid check-in counters at the airport. Allegiant charges a fee for printing a boarding pass at the counter (about $5 per pass). To avoid this:

• Download the official Allegiant mobile app. This is your main tool for managing your trip.
• Complete check-in online (opens 24 hours before departure) and save the electronic boarding pass on your phone.
• The app also allows you to quickly add baggage if you change your mind about flying light, for instance, returning with shopping from New York.

Seat Selection: To Pay or Not to Pay?

The airline's policy is simple: if you do not pay for seat selection, the system will assign it to you automatically at check-in. This may suit solo travellers, but if you are flying as a family or group, for example, for a weekend from Sarasota to Boston, there is a high risk of ending up at different ends of the cabin. We strongly recommend paying for seat selection in advance to guarantee sitting together, especially if you are travelling with children.

Insurance Against Change of Plans

Standard Allegiant Air tickets are generally non-refundable and non-changeable without paying substantial fines. If your plans might change, pay attention to the Trip Flex option when booking. It allows you to change the date, flight, or route (for example, moving a trip to Las Vegas) once without penalty fees. This is a small investment that can save hundreds of dollars in case of unforeseen circumstances.

How to Catch Deals

Allegiant does not use global distribution systems as actively as other airlines, so the best prices are always on their official website. Subscribe to their email newsletter: this is where short-term sales and special offers on package tours (flight + hotel) are announced. Sometimes discounts appear suddenly and are valid for just a couple of days, so speed is your best friend.

History and Development of the Airline

Allegiant Air's journey is a classic American success story based on finding a unique market niche. Unlike major carriers striving to capture the business segment, Allegiant bet on ordinary tourists wishing to fly on holiday inexpensively from the very beginning. Over more than two decades, the company has transformed from a small startup into one of the most profitable air carriers in the world.

Founding and Early Years

The airline was founded in January 1997 under the name WestJet Express in Fresno, California. A year later, following a trademark dispute, it received its current name — Allegiant Air. The early years were not easy: the company tried to find its place in the market, operating charter and scheduled flights on the West Coast. The turning point came in 2001 when, after reorganisation and bankruptcy, Maurice Gallagher took over management. He moved the headquarters to Las Vegas and completely changed the business model, turning the company into an ultra-low-cost carrier.

Change of Strategy and Route Expansion

The new philosophy was simple: to connect small US cities, overlooked by major airlines, with the country's main resorts via direct flights. This allowed regional residents to fly on holiday without long transfers in congested hubs. The route network began to grow rapidly. The airline linked sunny resorts with cities such as Cincinnati and Knoxville, opening an affordable path to beaches and entertainment for their residents.

Expansion continued on the East Coast and in the central part of the country. For example, the introduction of flights from the major hub of Denver and airports in the Greater New York area (Newark) allowed Allegiant to gain a foothold in highly competitive markets, offering an alternative to expensive tickets from traditional airlines.

Fleet Evolution: From "Mad Dogs" to Airbus

A unique feature of Allegiant's early strategy was the use of second-hand McDonnell Douglas MD-80 aircraft (known in aviation as "Mad Dogs"). While competitors spent billions on new liners, Allegiant bought up reliable but ageing MD-80s for small sums. This allowed costs to be kept low and flights to be profitable quickly, even if the plane flew only a couple of times a week.

However, with rising fuel prices, the strategy changed. In the 2010s, the company began a large-scale fleet renewal programme, gradually replacing old MD-80s with more economical Airbus A319 and A320 aircraft. The last MD-80 flight was operated in November 2018, marking the end of an era. Today, the company's fleet consists of modern Airbus liners, which has increased the comfort of passengers flying, for example, from Sarasota to historic Boston.

Modern Developments and Innovations

Today, Allegiant Travel Company (the parent company) positions itself not just as an air carrier, but as a full-fledged travel company. One of the most ambitious projects has been the construction of its own resort complex, Sunseeker Resort in Florida, which is an unprecedented step for an airline.

In the aviation sector, the company also looks to the future: Allegiant has signed a major contract with Boeing for the supply of the latest Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. This decision speaks to the carrier's readiness for further expansion and the implementation of the most advanced technologies to reduce its carbon footprint and increase flight efficiency.