Allegiant Airlines Brings Six New Nonstop Routes to Gulf Shores in 2025

As a real estate advisor and long-time resident of the Alabama Gulf Coast, I’m thrilled to share some exciting news that’s set to transform the Gulf Shores area. For the first time in our city’s history, Allegiant Airlines is introducing commercial air service from Gulf Shores International Airport, beginning in May 2025. This development brings six nonstop routes, connecting our beautiful beach community to major cities across the U.S.

New Nonstop Routes to Gulf Shores

Here’s a closer look at the destinations and launch dates:

• Knoxville, Tennessee (Great Smoky Mountains National Park) via McGhee Tyson Airport (TYS) – May 21, 2025
• Cincinnati, Ohio via Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) – May 22, 2025
• Houston, Texas via William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) – May 22, 2025
• Bentonville/Fayetteville, Arkansas via Northwest Arkansas National Airport (XNA) – May 22, 2025
• Belleville, Illinois via MidAmerica St. Louis Airport (BLV) – May 23, 2025
• Kansas City, Missouri via Kansas City International Airport (MCI) – May 24, 2025

These flights, operating twice weekly during peak travel times, cater perfectly to both vacationers and local residents seeking convenient and affordable travel options. Allegiant’s model focuses on ultra-low-cost airfare and high-demand periods like holidays, summer, weekends, and school breaks—ideal for our thriving coastal tourism industry.

What This Means for Gulf Shores

This announcement is monumental for our community. Gulf Shores International Airport’s proximity to the beaches—just two miles away—is a unique asset that will draw visitors who value convenience. With shorter travel times, I expect an influx of tourists opting for weekend getaways and extended stays, bolstering our local economy. This is especially significant for those of us involved in real estate, as the increased exposure to Gulf Shores will attract potential buyers looking for vacation homes or investment properties.

My Thoughts and Predictions

I believe this new accessibility will spark a surge in demand for second homes, vacation rentals, and investment properties along the Gulf Coast. As Allegiant connects Gulf Shores to key Midwestern cities, we can anticipate a rise in buyers from these regions, eager to experience our emerald waters and white-sand beaches firsthand.

For local homeowners, this connectivity presents an opportunity to enhance the value of their properties. Proximity to an international airport is a strong selling point, particularly for out-of-state buyers. Whether you’re considering listing your home or exploring investment opportunities, the timing couldn’t be better.

Recommendations for Buyers and Sellers

1. For Buyers:
   If you’ve been dreaming of owning property along the Gulf Coast, now is the time to act. With the upcoming demand surge, early movers can secure properties before prices reflect the increased market activity.

2. For Sellers:
   Consider preparing your home for market now to capitalize on the heightened interest these flights will bring. Homes close to Gulf Shores International Airport or the beach will be particularly desirable.

A Community Game-Changer

The introduction of Allegiant Airlines and the $8 million investment in Gulf Shores International Airport signals a new era for our area. As Drew Wells, Allegiant’s Chief Commercial Officer, shared, this expansion “makes travel a reality for more people,” while Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft highlighted its potential to enhance both our quality of life and local economy.

This is a pivotal moment for Gulf Shores, and as a local real estate advisor, I’m here to guide you through how these changes can benefit your real estate goals. Whether you’re buying, selling, or simply curious about how this news impacts the market, I’d love to share my insights.

Meredith Amon is a local real estate advisor licensed in Alabama and Florida. She specializes in helping buyers and sellers navigate the buying and selling of homes along the Gulf Coast.

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1. How will Allegiant Airlines’ new nonstop routes to Gulf Shores impact real estate in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

The addition of six new nonstop routes to Gulf Shores is likely to boost the demand for vacation rentals and investment properties in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Increased accessibility will attract more visitors, potentially driving up property values as buyers seek to invest in rental homes or vacation condos. This can also lead to heightened interest in luxury properties near the coast, creating a strong seller's market.

2. What does the increase in air travel mean for the local tourism industry along the Gulf Coast?

The new nonstop routes are expected to significantly enhance tourism, as Gulf Shores and Orange Beach become more convenient for travelers from previously underserved markets. This will likely lead to higher occupancy rates in hotels, increased bookings for vacation rentals, and greater economic benefits for local businesses such as restaurants, shops, and attractions.

3. Will the increased connectivity affect the seasonal nature of tourism in Gulf Shores and Orange Beach?

Yes, greater connectivity can extend the tourist season by attracting visitors year-round rather than just during peak summer months. With easier access, visitors may choose to travel during off-peak times, benefiting the local economy and reducing the strain on infrastructure during high-demand periods.

4. How might the new routes influence the development of new construction homes on the Gulf Coast?

With an anticipated increase in tourism and relocation interest, builders and developers may see new opportunities to cater to both primary and second-home buyers. In areas like Orange Beach and Gulf Shores, new construction homes designed for modern lifestyles—featuring energy-efficient systems, boater-friendly amenities, and outdoor living spaces—are likely to grow in demand.

5. What are the long-term implications of Allegiant Airlines' expanded service for the Gulf Coast's real estate market?

In the long term, the expanded service could position Gulf Shores and Orange Beach as premier vacation destinations with increased property desirability. This may lead to a surge in investment properties and higher rental income potential for owners. For locals, the influx of visitors and new residents could inspire infrastructure improvements and elevate the area’s overall appeal.