News Summary
Allegiant Air has announced the suspension of flights from Memphis to Los Angeles starting May 12 as part of the airline’s decision to close its LAX operations due to unsustainable operating costs. This change will affect passengers at Memphis International Airport and impact multiple routes. While travelers are losing the LAX connection, seasonal flights to Nashville remain unaffected, providing some options for those looking to travel. As these strategic shifts occur, frequent flyers are advised to stay informed and plan their travel accordingly.
Memphis Shakes as Allegiant Air Hits Pause on LAX Flights
Big changes are on the horizon for air travelers in Memphis! Allegiant Air has just announced that it will be pausing flights from Memphis to Los Angeles starting May 12. The news, while surprising to some, is part of a bigger picture that includes the airline closing its base of operations at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).
The Impact on Memphis International Airport
This shift means that passengers flying out of Memphis International Airport will lose one vital connection to LAX, making upcoming travel plans a little more tricky. Allegiant’s decision to close the Los Angeles hub has rippling effects that go beyond just Memphis, affecting numerous routes. But wait, the story doesn’t stop there!
LAX Operations to Wind Down
After an impressive 16 years of service, Allegiant has decided it’s time to say goodbye to its LAX hub completely on September 2. The airline has cited unsustainable operating costs in Los Angeles as the reason behind this drastic decision. Not only is Memphis losing its flight, but a total of nine routes from LAX will be impacted by this closure, which notably includes routes from Chicago Rockford International Airport, Montana, Iowa, Texas, Oregon, Tennessee, and South Dakota.
Rockford’s Route Revisions
In a related twist, Rockford International Airport won’t be seeing its flights to LAX as those routes were already on the chopping block and officially removed from their schedule. Airport officials confirmed these changes just earlier this week, leaving many travelers wondering about alternatives.
Bright Side: No Changes to Nashville Flights
But it’s not all gloom and doom! For those eyeing a trip to Nashville, you’re in luck; the seasonal flights remain unaffected and will continue to be readily available for passengers who are eager to visit the Music City. This means that while the connection to Los Angeles may be in jeopardy, you can still plan your journey to the soulful sounds of Nashville without any hiccups!
Looking Back at Rockford’s Success
It’s interesting to note that Rockford airport experienced a remarkable growth spurt last year, welcoming a record 262,432 passengers in 2024. This marked a significant 9% increase from the previous year, with new routes to Nashville and LA playing a big role in attracting travelers. However, with these upcoming changes to their flight routes, just how this growth will be affected remains to be seen.
What’s Next for Allegiant Air?
As Allegiant Air makes these strategic shifts, travelers in and out of Memphis and across the regions served by its LAX operations might need to rethink their flying habits. While some connections will vanish, it’s a good time for plane enthusiasts and travelers alike to keep an eye out for what’s next on Allegiant’s horizon. Who knows? There could be new routes or updates to existing services that are just around the corner.
Stay Tuned and Plan Ahead
For those who frequently fly out of Memphis or up north from Rockford, it is crucial to stay updated with any changes as they develop. Travelers are encouraged to check flight schedules, book early, and look for alternative travel options to maintain their plans. After all, the journey is just as important as the destination!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Daily Memphian: Allegiant Air to Pause Memphis to Los Angeles Flights
- Rock River Current: Allegiant Air to Shut Down LAX Operations
- MSN: Allegiant Air Cuts 9 Routes
- Airline Geeks: Allegiant to Close Base After 16 Years
- My Stateline: Allegiant Air Discontinues Rockford Flights
- Wikipedia: Allegiant Air
- Google Search: Allegiant Air
- Google Scholar: Allegiant Air
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Airline
- Google News: Allegiant Air
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
