Des Moines International Airport in Iowa has become the 20th base of operations for Allegiant Air. The Las Vegas-based carrier will begin base operations at Des Moines on 14 May 2020.
The announcement heralds a $50m investment which will locate two Airbus A320 aircraft at the Iowa base and introduce at least 66 new, high-wage jobs to the community.
“For Allegiant to select Des Moines International Airport as a base of operations is a historic day for Des Moines, our airport and the two-and-a-half million passengers who fly through our City each year,” said Des Moines Mayor Frank Cownie.
“The financial investment and well-paying jobs this brings to our community is significant and most appreciated.”
Iowa’s capital city and the Greater Des Moines region are the core of one of the fastest growing areas in the Midwest. Home to more than 791,000 residents, the region is known for iconic festivals and events, sports and outdoor recreation opportunities, as well as a burgeoning business environment. In recent years, Des Moines has been named among the nation’s top places to live (US News & World Report, 2018) and top locations for business and careers. (Forbes, 2017)
Des Moines has enjoyed a long-standing relationship with Allegiant, spanning more than 15 years. Keith Hansen, Allegiant’s vice president of government affairs stated that: “Having locally-based aircraft and crews will open up a wide range of options for new service and more flights throughout the day. We’re excited to bring more opportunities for affordable, convenient travel, and expand Allegiant’s presence as a hometown airline for Hawkeye state residents.”
Having entered service at Des Moines in 2003, Allegiant currently offers eight direct routes – to Orlando-Sanford, St. Pete-Clearwater, Punta Gorda, Destin-Fort Walton Beach and Sarasota in Florida; Phoenix-Mesa in Arizona; Los Angeles in California; and Las Vegas in Nevada.
Commenting on how the airport continues to play a critical role in the economic vitality of the region, Kevin Foley, Des Moines Airport Authority Executive Director said: “Iowans continue to prove travel is important to them and Des Moines is committed to growing air service in our market. Through this partnership with Allegiant, not only will we be adding jobs in our community, we will be opening the door for new destinations and adventures.”
