One year in, Gulf Shores Airport grows Allegiant network with five new destinations
The sole intrastate commercial flight -- from Huntsville to Gulf Shores -- began on Friday. Allegiant Air is offering introductory rates for the new few days.
Mason Reed 
One year after launching its inaugural commercial flight service, Gulf Shores International Airport is experiencing steady growth as Allegiant Air continues to broaden its footprint. As demand climbs, the facility is gearing up for a significant $15 million terminal expansion to accommodate the airline's rising flight activity.
New Routes and Intrastate Connectivity
The airport recently introduced several new routes, including a landmark connection for Alabama travelers. Starting Thursday, Allegiant began offering round-trip commercial flights between Huntsville and Gulf Shores, a rare intrastate service that provides a quick alternative to driving.
Gulf Shores International Airport Director Jesse Fosnaugh highlighted the significance of the new connection. "I am very excited about the start of these routes as we about to begin construction on your new terminal expansion to support Allegiant’s growing nonstop network in Gulf Shores," Fosnaugh stated. Regarding the Huntsville–Gulf Shores service, he called it a massive win for the state, noting that travelers can now bridge the distance between the Rocket City and the coast in about an hour—often for less than the cost of a tank of gas.
Summer Expansion
Allegiant serves as the exclusive carrier for Gulf Shores International. Following its opening last May with seven destinations, the airport quickly added three more—including Nashville—and is on track to serve 13 destinations with 30 weekly flights by this summer. Most routes will run up to twice weekly, while the Gulf Shores to Oklahoma City route will operate up to three times per week.
Travelers looking to take advantage of new service should act quickly, as introductory one-way fares are only available for a short time. For instance, flights to and from Huntsville must be booked by Saturday for travel dates through Aug. 13.
The airport was on pace to surpass 150,000 passengers in its first year. Reaching this milestone would position the facility as Alabama’s fourth-busiest commercial airport, ranking just behind the Montgomery Regional Airport, according to 205focus.com reporting.
