Allegiant Air announces routes in and out of MEM

MEMPHIS, TN (WMC) - Allegiant Air is the new low-cost airline landing soon at Memphis International Airport. This announcement is great news for the airport that's been trying to attract more affordable airlines to Memphis.

Travelers are hoping it brings new, low-cost flight options.

"You throw Allegiant Air into the mix, our average fares are going to to come down significantly," Jack Sammons of the Memphis-Shelby County Airport Authority said.

Beginning on May 22, 2015. Allegiant will offer nonstop flights twice a week to three destinations: Fort Lauderdale's Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Las Vegas McCarran International Airport (LAS), and Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB).

Allegiant Air's website claims to offer flights from America's favorite small cities to world-class destinations. Introductory offers include non-stop, one-way flights from $42 to Orlando, $66 to Ft. Lauderdale, and $80 to Las Vegas.

"If you play the game right, you can save a lot of money," Seth Kaplan of Airline Weekly said.

Kaplan says one way to really save with Allegiant is to purchase your tickets with cash or a debit card.

"They charge less if you actually buy your tickets in person rather than paying online."

Another money-saving idea involves checked baggage. Kaplan says passengers flying in pairs should check one bag instead of bringing two carry-on bags.

Allegiant becomes the third airline to offer service at Memphis International Airport in less than two years.

Finally, your ticket will be cheaper if you allow the airline to pick your seat for you. They give you the option to choose where you're sitting, but doing so will increase your bottom line.

Allegiant was founded in 1997 and is certificated by the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) as a "Scheduled Air Carrier" with authority to fly charter airline operations across the U.S., Canada and Mexico.

Click here to learn more about Allegiant Air.

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