Allegiant Air: Best Airlines Review

Allegiant Air, a low-cost carrier based in the United States, has carved a unique niche for itself in the airline industry. With a business model focused on connecting underserved cities and offering budget-friendly fares, Allegiant has garnered a loyal customer base. However, as with any airline, experiences can vary widely. This review aims to provide a comprehensive look at what it's like to fly with Allegiant Air, covering everything from booking and boarding to in-flight amenities and overall value.

Booking and Pricing

One of Allegiant Air's strongest selling points is its pricing. The airline aims to offer some of the lowest fares in the industry, and it often succeeds. The booking process is straightforward, and the website is user-friendly. However, it’s important to note that the base fare often only covers the seat itself; almost everything else is an add-on. Want to choose your seat? That’s extra. Need to bring a carry-on or checked bag? That’ll cost you too. While this à la carte pricing model can be frustrating for some, it allows budget-conscious travelers to pay only for what they need, potentially saving money compared to full-service airlines.

Routes and Destinations

Allegiant Air primarily serves smaller, regional airports rather than major hubs. This strategy allows the airline to offer direct flights between cities that may not otherwise be connected, often at a lower cost than competitors. For many travelers, this can be a significant convenience, eliminating the need for layovers and long drives to major airports. However, the downside is that Allegiant’s flight schedule may not be as frequent or flexible as those of larger airlines, so planning ahead is crucial.

Check-In and Boarding

Allegiant Air offers multiple check-in options, including online check-in, mobile check-in, and airport kiosk check-in. Online and mobile check-in open 24 hours before departure and are generally recommended to save time at the airport. The boarding process is usually efficient, but it can feel somewhat rushed. Allegiant uses a zone-based boarding system, and announcements can sometimes be hard to hear clearly. Despite this, the staff are generally helpful and courteous, ensuring that passengers board in an orderly manner.

Seating and Comfort

The seating on Allegiant Air is pretty basic. The seats are generally slim and lack the padding and recline features found on more premium airlines. Legroom is average for a low-cost carrier, which means it can be tight for taller passengers. Allegiant has started to introduce “Giant Seats” on some of its aircraft, offering more legroom and wider seats for an additional fee. If comfort is a priority for you, it may be worth considering this upgrade.

In-Flight Experience

Allegiant Air keeps its in-flight services minimalistic, in line with its low-cost philosophy. There is no complimentary food or drink service; everything, including water, comes at a cost. The airline does not offer in-flight entertainment systems, Wi-Fi, or power outlets, so passengers should plan to bring their own devices and entertainment. While this bare-bones approach can be a drawback for some, it aligns with the airline’s focus on keeping costs low.

Customer Service

Customer service is a mixed bag. On the one hand, the flight attendants are generally friendly and professional, doing their best to assist passengers within the constraints of a low-cost operation. On the other hand, customer service issues such as flight delays, cancellations, and lost baggage can be more challenging to resolve compared to major airlines, largely due to a smaller support infrastructure. Allegiant does offer a customer service hotline and social media support, but wait times can be lengthy.

Safety and Reliability

Allegiant Air has faced scrutiny in the past regarding its safety record, but it has made significant improvements in recent years. The airline has invested in newer aircraft and enhanced its maintenance procedures. While occasional delays and cancellations are part of air travel, Allegiant’s performance in these areas is generally on par with other low-cost carriers.

Overall Value

Allegiant Air offers excellent value for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize cost over luxury. The airline’s à la carte pricing model allows passengers to customize their travel experience based on their needs and budget. While the lack of in-flight amenities and the additional fees can be drawbacks, the convenience of direct flights to smaller cities and the potential for significant cost savings often outweigh these negatives.

Conclusion

Allegiant Air may not offer the frills and luxuries of full-service airlines, but it excels in providing affordable, direct flights to underserved markets. For travelers willing to forgo some comforts and plan ahead, it can be a highly cost-effective option. Whether you’re a frequent flyer looking to save money or a leisure traveler seeking convenient routes, Allegiant Air presents a compelling choice in the realm of low-cost carriers.