Allegiant To Return All Orlando Operations To Orlando Sanford
When it made the decision to experiment with flights out of OIA last year, Allegiant cited competition from Orlando-based AirTran Airways, which serves some of the same smaller destinations that are Allegiant's prime markets. While operating out of OIA — the nation's 13th-busiest airport — was more expensive for Allegiant, the airline thought customers would prefer the Orlando airport's proximity to major attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.
But it turns out Allegiant passengers, who fly to Orlando from places like Des Moines, Iowa; Knoxville, Tenn.; and Springfield, Mo., missed the simpler infrastructure of a small-city airport.
"These people are used to a small, convenient airport," LoPiccolo said. "Sanford has provided that opportunity for our customers."
Sanford airport President Larry Dale praised Allegiant's move, saying the airport is "elated" that its primary domestic carrier is reconsolidating in Seminole County.
"We had over 1,350 e-mails from people begging us to get them back," Dale said. "That is good news for our folks here to have them coming home."
When it made the decision to experiment with flights out of OIA last year, Allegiant cited competition from Orlando-based AirTran Airways, which serves some of the same smaller destinations that are Allegiant's prime markets. While operating out of OIA — the nation's 13th-busiest airport — was more expensive for Allegiant, the airline thought customers would prefer the Orlando airport's proximity to major attractions such as Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando.
But it turns out Allegiant passengers, who fly to Orlando from places like Des Moines, Iowa; Knoxville, Tenn.; and Springfield, Mo., missed the simpler infrastructure of a small-city airport.
"These people are used to a small, convenient airport," LoPiccolo said. "Sanford has provided that opportunity for our customers."
Sanford airport President Larry Dale praised Allegiant's move, saying the airport is "elated" that its primary domestic carrier is reconsolidating in Seminole County.
"We had over 1,350 e-mails from people begging us to get them back," Dale said. "That is good news for our folks here to have them coming home."
