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Allegiant and Sun Country Complete $1.5 Billion Merger

by Daniel McCarthy  May 14, 2026
Two allegiant airlines planes on the runway

Photo: Shutterstock.com

Allegiant Air’s acquisition of Sun Country Airlines is now officially wrapped up.

The $1.5 billion deal, which was first announced in October 2025, creates a combined airline of 195 aircraft serving nearly 175 cities across more than 650 routes. This moves the carrier to the position of the fifth-largest U.S. airline by passenger volume—surpassing JetBlue and Alaska Airlines (at least until the Alaska-Hawaiian merger officially closes).

The plan is for the two airlines to continue to operate as separate brands over the next 18 to 24 months as they work toward obtaining a single operating certificate from the FAA. The expectation is that, eventually, the two will operate under the Allegiant brand, and the Sun Country name will be phased out. By then, the combined fleet will be approximately 300 aircraft with the current orders on the books.

“Today marks a defining moment in Allegiant’s history,” said CEO Gregory Anderson. “By bringing together two strong airlines with complementary models, we are creating a more durable airline that is well-positioned to deliver lasting value for our customers, team members, and shareholders.”

For the immediate future, guests shouldn’t’t expect much changes. The loyalty and credit card programs will continue to operate as they do today as will the flight schedules and any airline-specific policies. Guests are still not able to book across both airlines.

  
  
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