If you’re considering a domestic flight within the United States, Allegiant Airlines is one of the budget carriers you may encounter. Known for offering affordable fares, Allegiant Air has built a reputation as a popular low-cost carrier. But as with all budget airlines, there are a few pros and cons to keep in mind. Whether you’re planning a direct flight to a sunny destination like Punta Gorda or a quick evening flight, this Allegiant Airlines review will provide a clear picture of what you can expect onboard, from seat selection to customer service and more.

Let’s take a closer look at what passengers are saying about Allegiant flights and how it stacks up against other budget airlines like Spirit Airlines or even traditional domestic airlines like American Airlines.

Booking Process: A User Experience Overview

Booking a flight with Allegiant Airlines is easy. Passengers often book via the official Allegiant Air website or through Google Flights for better price comparisons. The online booking process is simple, where you can select flights, seat selection, and any additional services like baggage fees. However, travelers note that while the Allegiant flight process is generally seamless, there are a few extra costs that may surprise you.

Add-Ons: Expect to pay for a carry-on bag, seat choice, and in some cases, priority boarding. These add-ons can quickly add up to the total ticket price.
Tip: For the best deal, make sure to book your return flight and baggage in advance through the Allegiant website to avoid higher fees at the airport.

Additional Fees: Understanding Baggage Charges

When flying with Allegiant Air, you’ll quickly notice that additional fees are a significant part of the travel experience. As a low-cost carrier, Allegiant offers low base fares, but they charge for services that are often included with other airlines.

Carry-On Bag: A carry-on bag is not included in the base fare, and if you plan to bring more than a personal item, expect to pay anywhere from $10 to $50 depending on when you add the bag to your booking.
Checked Luggage: The price for checked luggage can vary, with typical fees ranging from $18 to $50 per bag.

These additional charges are common for budget carriers, but it’s essential to factor them into your overall trip cost when booking.

Customer Service: Varied Experiences

Allegiant Airlines customer service has received mixed reviews. Many passengers report having positive experiences with flight attendants who are friendly and helpful. However, issues arise when things go wrong, especially during delays or cancellations. Allegiant customer service during such disruptions has been described as horrible by some travelers.

Positive Interactions with Crew

Onboard, Allegiant flight attendants are often praised for their friendly demeanor and professionalism. Travelers appreciate the flight crew for keeping the flight experience smooth, whether it’s serving drinks or assisting with general needs.

Negative Feedback on Support During Cancellations

However, the story changes when it comes to customer service in the event of flight delays or cancellations. Several passengers have shared experiences of being left without support or assistance. This is a significant downside for those looking for reliable service from their domestic airline.

Aircraft Condition: What to Expect Onboard

In terms of comfort, Allegiant Airlines flights are generally consistent with what you might expect from a budget airline. While the aircraft are clean, seat pitch (legroom) is often a sticking point for taller passengers. Many Allegiant planes are older, and this impacts the overall flight experience.

Inches of Legroom: With only 28-29 inches of legroom, you might feel cramped during a longer domestic flight. This makes Allegiant Air less comfortable for taller individuals or those flying for longer periods.

While the planes are functional and typically well-maintained, Allegiant isn’t exactly offering luxury travel. If comfort is a priority, other carriers like American Airlines might offer more space and amenities.

Seating Options: Evaluating Legroom + Seats

When it comes to seating, Allegiant Airlines doesn’t offer much in terms of frills. Expect basic seating arrangements with minimal recline and relatively cramped conditions. If you are planning to fly for more than a couple of hours, the tight seat pitch might be uncomfortable.

What You Need to Know:

Seat Selection: You’ll have the option to select your seat for an additional charge, which includes premium seating with extra legroom.
Comfort: For shorter nonstop flights, the seating may be tolerable. However, for longer routes, it may become uncomfortable, especially for those needing more space.

For travelers prioritizing comfort, you might want to opt for the premium seats, but be prepared to pay extra for them.

In-Flight Amenities: Are They Worth It?

In-flight amenities on Allegiant flights are minimal, as is typical for low-cost carriers. Unlike larger domestic airlines, you won’t find free flight entertainment or snacks. The airline focuses on keeping fares low, so passengers need to be self-sufficient during the flight.

Snacks & Drinks: You can purchase snacks and beverages onboard, but they are not complimentary.
Wi-Fi: Some planes are equipped with Wi-Fi, but it’s often unreliable. Don’t expect to stream movies or easily work during your flight.

If you enjoy having flight entertainment or complimentary refreshments, Allegiant may fall short of your expectations. However, for shorter flights, this is generally not a major concern for many budget-conscious travelers.

Value for Money: Analyzing Ticket Prices vs. Experience

The biggest draw of Allegiant Airlines is its affordable fares. If you’re willing to forgo extra amenities and deal with additional fees, you can get great value for your money. Allegiant flights typically cost much less than other budget airlines and domestic airlines, especially for direct flights to secondary airports.

What to Consider:

Low Base Fares: Allegiant’s ticket prices are among the lowest for direct flights across the U.S.
Additional Costs: While the base fare is cheap, travelers often find themselves paying for extras like seat selection and baggage. Make sure to factor these into your final ticket cost.

For those looking for the most affordable option and flying for short to medium distances, Allegiant Airlines can provide significant savings. But for a more comfortable experience with fewer extra fees, American Airlines or Spirit Airlines may be worth considering.

Route-Specific Experiences: Differing Quality

Allegiant Airlines flies to both major airports and smaller secondary airports. The quality of the experience can vary significantly depending on your route. On some flights, you may find smooth operations and on-time arrivals, while on others, delays and cancellations may be more common.

Direct Flights: Allegiant offers nonstop flights to many destinations, which can be a huge convenience, especially for those flying to Punta Gorda or other secondary airports.
Secondary Airports: Flying to secondary airports can offer benefits like fewer crowds and shorter lines, but some smaller airports may not offer the same facilities and services as larger hubs.

Your experience may differ depending on your departure and arrival cities, so it’s a good idea to check out reviews of specific routes before booking.

Convenience of Flying Allegiant: Pros and Cons

Flying with Allegiant Airlines can be convenient and affordable, but there are several factors to weigh before making a decision.

Pros:

Low-Cost Flights: Allegiant’s fares are some of the lowest for direct flights within the U.S.
Nonstop Options: The ability to fly directly to destinations like Punta Gorda can save time.
Secondary Airports: Smaller airports can be less crowded and offer easier boarding.

Cons:

Extra Fees: Additional charges for baggage, seat selection, and onboard services can quickly add up.
Basic Comfort: The flight experience is basic, with limited flight entertainment and cramped seating.
Customer Service: Some passengers report dealing with horrible customer service, especially during disruptions.

Conclusion: Is Allegiant Airlines Right for Your Travel Plans?

In conclusion, Allegiant Airlines is a great option for travelers looking for budget-friendly flights in the United States. While the low-cost carrier offers great deals on fares, it’s important to be prepared for the additional costs that come with seat selection, baggage, and limited amenities.

If you’re okay with the basic flight experience and extra charges, Allegiant Air can be a solid choice, especially for short nonstop flights to secondary airports. However, if you prefer a more comfortable ride with more amenities, other options like American Airlines or Spirit Airlines may better suit your needs.

Ready to book your next Allegiant flight? Visit the official Allegiant Airlines website to explore the latest deals and destinations.