Allegiant Air, the ultra-low-cost carrier known for connecting smaller, underserved cities to popular vacation destinations, has recently introduced new service to Florida, substantially growing its network across the Sunshine State. The centerpiece of this expansion is the addition of Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) in Fort Myers to its route map for the first time.

The launch of service to RSW is part of Allegiant's broader strategy to expand its presence in key leisure markets, giving travelers from mid-sized cities easier and more affordable access to the beaches of Southwest Florida.

New Nonstop Routes to Fort Myers (RSW)

Allegiant commenced new, nonstop service from three cities to Fort Myers (RSW) in November 2025:

Origin City

Airport Code

Start Date

Frequency

Allentown, Pennsylvania

ABE

November 13, 2025

Varies (e.g., Twice Weekly)

Appleton, Wisconsin

ATW

November 21, 2025

Varies (e.g., Twice Weekly)

Des Moines, Iowa

DSM

November 21, 2025

Varies (e.g., Twice Weekly)

These new routes, operated primarily on Mondays and Fridays, align with Allegiant’s model of providing affordable, non-competitive service that reduces the total travel time for vacationers.

Continued Florida Expansion in 2026

The new flights into Fort Myers were just the beginning of the airline's planned growth. Allegiant has also announced additional routes and an increased presence at other Florida airports for early 2026, further cementing the state's importance to the carrier's network.

Future routes announced as part of the winter 2025/2026 schedule include:

  • Fort Myers (RSW): Planned service additions to Chicago/Rockford (RFD), Rochester (ROC), and Albany (ALB) beginning in February 2026.

  • Key West (EYW): New flights connecting Key West to Columbus, Ohio (LCK) starting in May 2026.

  • Other Destinations: Continued expansion at existing Florida hubs like Punta Gorda (PGD), Sarasota/Bradenton (SRQ), and Fort Lauderdale (FLL).

Drew Wells, Allegiant's Chief Commercial Officer, highlighted that the expansion "reflects our commitment to connecting underserved communities with affordable, convenient travel options," allowing travelers to spend "less time at the airport and more time on vacation."

The airline’s growth strategy, which focuses on point-to-point, nonstop service from smaller markets, is a key driver behind the tourism boom in Southwest Florida, bringing visitors directly to the Gulf Coast without requiring connection flights through larger hubs.