Gulf Shores Takes Flight: What New Commercial Air Service Means for Gulf Coast Real Estate
By Meredith Amon, Gulf Coast Real Estate Advisor
Licensed in Alabama & Florida
Guided by Integrity. Backed by Experience. Search the Gulf with Meredith Amon
For decades, Gulf Shores has been one of the Gulf Coast’s best-kept secrets—accessible mostly by car or private aircraft, cherished by those who made the extra effort to reach our pristine beaches, quiet canals, and authentic coastal lifestyle. As someone who lives here on Ono Island and works daily with buyers and sellers throughout Gulf Shores, Orange Beach, and Perdido Key, I’ve seen firsthand how this seclusion added to our charm, while also presenting some logistical limitations for those outside our immediate region.
That chapter is changing.
With the launch of commercial air service at Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF), our coast is entering a new era—one that makes us more accessible than ever before, and one that I believe will shape the next wave of interest and investment in Gulf Coast real estate.
A New Gateway to Alabama’s Beaches
On May 21, 2025, Allegiant Airlines inaugurated its first commercial route to Gulf Shores, arriving from Knoxville, Tennessee. This historic touchdown—celebrated with a ceremonial water cannon salute and ribbon-cutting at the newly unveiled terminal—symbolized more than an airport expansion. It marked a shift in our region’s visibility, convenience, and long-term growth trajectory.
For years, access to Gulf Shores meant hours of highway travel or a chartered flight into Jack Edwards National Airport. That limited the number of buyers who could easily visit properties on short notice, explore custom home opportunities, or return frequently to second homes. Now, with regularly scheduled commercial service in place, that barrier is coming down.
Expanded Routes Mean Expanded Reach
Initially, Allegiant had announced six nonstop destinations: Cincinnati, Houston, Knoxville, Bentonville/Fayetteville, Belleville/St. Louis, and Kansas City. During the inaugural celebration, two more were added: Appleton, Wisconsin and Des Moines, Iowa, with service beginning in October.
These markets are significant. Many of my buyers and clients over the years have come from the Midwest and Southeast—regions where winter weather pushes people south, and Gulf Coast property is viewed not just as a lifestyle purchase, but a legacy asset.
Now, with these direct routes in place, visiting a listing on Ono Island, viewing a new construction home in Orange Beach, or walking a waterfront lot in Gulf Shores is not only feasible—it’s efficient.
What This Means for Real Estate on the Gulf Coast
I’ve always believed that access drives value. When buyers can reach a destination with ease, they’re more likely to engage, purchase, and invest with confidence. The launch of commercial service at GUF is poised to elevate every corner of our local market.
Here’s what I anticipate:
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Heightened demand from out-of-state buyers, especially second-home and vacation property investors
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Increased value for properties positioned near marinas, waterways, and lifestyle communities
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Greater visibility for listings, especially those paired with professional marketing, renderings, and builder partnerships
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Accelerated interest in land and custom home builds, now that future homeowners can fly in, meet with builders, and tour lots more easily
This is particularly important for communities like Ono Island, where the experience of the property—its privacy, views, and waterfront access—must be seen to be appreciated. Now, that experience is only a few hours away for thousands of new potential buyers.
My Perspective as a Local Advisor
For those who already own property here, this moment represents a rare window of opportunity. Interest will grow. Discovery will increase. And with it, the Gulf Coast’s profile as a year-round, high-quality destination will continue to rise.
Whether you're thinking about selling your lot, exploring a custom home, or curious how these changes might affect your property value, this is the time to act with strategy and clarity.
I’m proud to live and work here—helping others discover what we already know: there’s nowhere quite like the Alabama Gulf Coast.
Let’s Talk Real Estate Strategy
If you’re flying in, considering listing, or ready to explore your next move along the coast, I’d love to walk your lot, present current market opportunities, and design a tailored plan for your goals.
Contact me at meredith@searchthegulf.com
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