Allegiant, Sun Country to Merge

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Allegiant and Sun Country airlines announced a merger agreement on Sunday under which Allegiant will acquire Sun Country in a cash-and-stock transaction.

The combined airline will serve approximately 22 million customers annually, operate in nearly 175 cities with more than 650 routes and have a combined fleet of 195 aircraft, along with additional orders and options.

The two airlines announced plans to unite their route networks, aircraft fleets and travel businesses under one roof: the Allegiant brand. Travelers can also look forward to an expanded loyalty program combining amenities from both airlines.

Both carriers said the combined airline will maintain a significant operational presence in Minneapolis–St. Paul.

The transaction was unanimously approved by the boards of both Allegiant and Sun Country and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory approvals, shareholder approvals and other customary closing conditions, the carriers said.

“This combination is an exciting next chapter in Allegiant and Sun Country’s shared mission in providing affordable, reliable, and convenient service from underserved communities to premier leisure destinations. We have long admired Sun Country for their well-run, flexible, and diversified business model that optimizes for year-round utilization and strong margins,” said Gregory C. Anderson, Allegiant CEO. “Together, our complementary networks will expand our reach to more vacation destinations including international locations. With our combined strengths, including operational excellence, consistent profitability, strong balance sheets, and fleet ownership, we will create an even more resilient and agile airline that delivers greater value to travelers, partners, team members, shareholders, and the communities we serve.”

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Jude Bricker, Sun Country President & CEO, noted that “over Sun Country’s 43-year history, we have grown to become one of the nation’s most respected low-cost, leisure airlines with a unique business model for serving scheduled service and charter passengers as well as delivering cargo, with a strong brand and deep roots in Minnesota… we believe this transaction delivers significant value to Sun Country shareholders and an opportunity to continue to benefit from our growth plans as a combined company.”

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