US start-up airlines race to launch, targeting untapped markets

The race is on for two start-up airlines in the US market, which are looking to adopt an Allegiant-like network structure by targeting underserved markets that are not attractive to larger US airlines. And both of those aspiring operators have recently been more vocal about their plans to launch this year.

Led by David Neeleman, the start-up Breeze aims to serve what it deems as neglected markets in the US, and Houston Air Holdings, led by former Allegiant executive and United CFO Andrew Levy, also aims to target underserved markets. Mr Levy's company has the benefit of having an aircraft operator's certificate (AOC) - something Breeze is working to acquire.

There is no lack of interest in each entity, and both companies seem firmly entrenched in their belief that there are multiple untapped opportunities in the mature US market.