Allegiant makes push from Phoenix-Mesa as ultra-LCC rivals Frontier and Spririt move in

Allegiant Air is planning rapid expansion from one of its largest bases during the final weeks of 2012 and into early 2013 as it introduces flights from Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport in Arizona to four new markets. The push is occurring as two of Allegiant's closest rivals - Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines - are enlarging the airport's scheduled service footprint. As it looks to maintain its leading position at Phoenix-Mesa, Allegiant is also looking at potentially launching services to Mexico in 2013, using its recently acquired fleet of A319s.

Five years ago, in Oct-2007, Allegiant introduced scheduled service at Phoenix-Mesa, and selected the airport as its third base, joining Las Vegas and Orlando. At that time it launched service to 13 markets from Phoenix-Mesa. Allegiant has since steadily expanded its operation at Phoenix-Mesa and by Feb-2013 the carrier will offer flights to 35 destinations, including Honolulu. In the Phoenix-Honolulu market, Allegiant will compete against US Airways and Hawaiian Airlines, which operate from nearby Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport.