Allegiant and Sun Country Merger Closes, Creating Eighth Largest U.S. Leisure Airline

Allegiant Air and Sun Country Airlines have officially completed their roughly $1.5 billion merger, creating the eighth-largest U.S. airline by seats. While both brands will continue to operate separately for now, Sun Country's loyalty program, Sun Country Rewards, will eventually merge into Allegiant's Allegiant Allways Rewards within 18-24 months, or by May 2028. The combined airline operates a fleet of 195 aircraft serving nearly 175 cities. Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport (MSP) is now the largest combined base by flights and seats, while Las Vegas (LAS) remains the headquarters. The merger also includes Sun Country's Amazon Prime Air cargo operations and charter business. This consolidation follows recent industry merger activity, including Spirit Airlines' collapse, and positions Allegiant as a major leisure carrier. Frequent flyers of Sun Country should monitor updates regarding the transition of their rewards program into Allegiant's system