The cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach have long been a "drive to" destination. Visitors from many markets would choose other beach vacation areas which had airline transportation available. Since the City of Gulf Shores took over the airport operations in the 70's, many upgrades have been made to the site but a national carrier has eluded the area.

Today Allegiant Airlines announced it will begin offering the first-ever commercial air service from Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF). The airline will launch six new nonstop routes from Gulf Shores International Airport starting in May 2025, connecting the beach community to major cities across the country.

The new routes from Gulf Shores include:

• Great Smoky Mountains National Park/Knoxville, Tennessee via McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) – beginning May 21, 2025
• Cincinnati, Ohio via Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) – beginning May 22, 2025
• Houston, Texas via William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) – beginning May 22, 2025
• Bentonville/Fayetteville, Arkansas via Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) – beginning May 22, 2025
• Belleville, Illinois via MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) – beginning May 23, 2025
• Kansas City, Missouri via Kansas City International Airport (MCI) – beginning May 24, 2025
  
  

"Today marks a historic moment for Gulf Shores as we welcome Allegiant to Gulf Shores International Airport," said Mayor Robert Craft. "Bringing scheduled air service to our community has been a goal for many years, and today represents a significant step toward making that a reality. Allegiant's new service will connect Gulf Shores directly to major cities, enhancing the quality of life for residents by providing new convenient travel options. These nonstop routes will also make traveling to Alabama's beaches easier than ever, allowing visitors to enjoy our local shops, restaurants, and everything our area has to offer more frequently. We are grateful for Allegiant's investment in Gulf Shores and look forward to a partnership that will grow for many years to come."

The flights, starting in February, will expand the airline’s network options in 51 cities around the country, offering convenient, affordable air service to premier vacation destinations. With many travelers being mindful of their spending, Allegiant is committed to providing budget-friendly options that allow customers to enjoy their dream vacation.

"We are thrilled to announce Allegiant as the first carrier to bring scheduled air service to Gulf Shores International Airport,” said Airport Director Jesse Fosnaugh. “Their business model, low-fares, and expertise in leisure travel aligns perfectly with our community’s long-time vision to bring air service to this community. This announcement is a game-changer."

The announcement was made inside a Gulf Shores airport hanger and attended by the mayors of Orange Beach, Foley and Robert Craft of Gulf Shores. Mayor Craft gave special recognition to each city leader and the area's Convention and Visitors Bureau for their contribution in brining airline travel to the market.