New Leadership Under Robert Neal
Robert 'BJ' Neal was appointed President on December 5, 2025, bringing 18 years of Allegiant experience to lead expansion efforts. His role focuses on balancing growth with the airline's ultra-low-cost model amid operational risks.
Neal's strategy emphasizes redeploying existing aircraft to test new markets with minimal capital, protecting unit revenues. This positions Allegiant to capture leisure demand in overlooked areas while maintaining cost control.
Challenges include federal government instability impacting FAA certifications and air traffic control staffing, as seen in Thanksgiving concerns, plus fuel cost volatility at $2.76 per gallon in November.
30 New Routes and Market Entry
Allegiant announced 30 new nonstop routes on December 18, 2025, entering four markets: La Crosse, Philadelphia, Trenton, and Columbia. Rollouts begin June 2026, enhancing connectivity for vacationers.
In Columbia Regional Airport (COU), new flights to Orlando and Destin, FL, follow United's return and American's Charlotte service, driven by data on passenger demand and regional growth.
This expansion builds momentum, with airports pitching growth data to airlines at conferences. FAA forecasts support rising enplanements, aiding Allegiant's leisure-focused network.
Traffic Growth and Stock Surge
November 2025 traffic showed 10.4% passenger growth, 9.1% available seat miles increase, and 9.4% more departures, reflecting strong demand despite a slight drop in average stage length.
Allegiant's stock soared 52% in six months after raising 2025 profit guidance above $3.00 per share, signaling investor confidence in recovery from Q3's net loss influenced by Sunseeker charges.
Recent promotions like Cyber Monday deals with 40% off fares as low as $39 underscore Allegiant's commitment to affordable travel, supporting sustained momentum into 2026.