Big News for Allegiant Airlines at Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport
Allegiant Air, the budget-friendly airline that has played a pivotal role in the rapid expansion of Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, is set to occupy all five gates in the new terminal currently under construction.
Although the planned terminal appears unremarkable at present, resembling nothing more than a construction site with underground utilities being installed near the ticket counter, it is expected to undergo a remarkable transformation by December 2024. The ground-level terminal will boast 970 seats, including 630 equipped with charging outlets for phones and electronic devices. Additionally, it will feature five gates, a four-lane security checkpoint, nursing rooms, a pet relief area, and restroom facilities.
The relocation of Allegiant Airlines to the new terminal will also free up three gates in the existing terminal, paving the way for further expansion opportunities.
With the availability of more gates, hopefully Allegiant will introduce additional destinations. Another factor contributing to Allegiant’s potential growth at SRQ is its Sunseeker Resort, currently under construction near Punta Gorda. The company plans to complete the resort and begin welcoming guests in October 2023, thereby creating an all-inclusive destination within proximity to Fort Myers and Sarasota.
Allegiant initiated its services at SRQ in April 2018 with three non-stop destinations and has since expanded to offer 29 non-stop flights. Southwest, which started serving SRQ in February 2021, now provides flights to 21 destinations.
Prior to Allegiant’s presence, SRQ was served by six airlines and offered non-stop flights to only 12 destinations. However, the airport’s offerings have now multiplied to over 50 destinations.
In another development, the Sarasota Airport Authority has agreed to engage in contract negotiations with Prime Engineering of Atlanta for planning, engineering, and architectural design services related to air cargo expansion and the vehicle storage facility. This project is an outcome of the airport’s considerable growth in passenger traffic.
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