Strengthening the Aviation Workforce Through Scale and Stability

January 12th, 2026

The U.S. airline industry continues to adjust to changing travel patterns, seasonal demand, and workforce needs. In January 2026, Allegiant announced a definitive agreement to combine with Sun Country Airlines, bringing together two leisure-focused carriers with similar operating models.

According to the companies, the combined airline is expected to serve roughly 22 million passengers annually, operate in nearly 175 cities, and support a network of more than 650 routes. The airline would operate a fleet of approximately 195 aircraft, with additional aircraft on order and option.

What the Companies Have Said About Employees

In their announcement, Allegiant and Sun Country emphasized continuity during the regulatory review and integration process. The companies stated that existing collective bargaining agreements will remain in effect and that employee representation under the Railway Labor Act will continue. They also indicated that both airlines will operate separately until a single FAA operating certificate is issued.

Leadership messaging focused on long-term scale rather than near-term change. The companies described a larger combined network and diversified operations that include scheduled passenger service, charter flying, and cargo activity.

Why This Matters for Communities Like Charlotte County

For communities such as Charlotte County, airline structure matters less as a headline and more as a workforce signal.

Airlines that serve small and mid-sized markets play a role in:

• Supporting regional connectivity

• Sustaining aviation-adjacent jobs

• Enabling workforce mobility for employers and residents

A larger, diversified airline model can provide operational flexibility across seasons. From an economic development perspective, that flexibility is relevant to aviation maintenance, logistics, airport services, and other support roles tied to air service.

This does not signal guaranteed growth or new routes. Instead, it reflects how airline scale and stability can influence the broader environment in which aviation and logistics jobs operate.

What Happens Next

The transaction has been approved by both companies’ boards of directors and is expected to close in the second half of 2026, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals. Until then, customers and employees will continue to interact with Allegiant and Sun Country as separate airlines.

Source

Allegiant Air Newsroom
https://newsroom.allegiantair.com/press-releases/press-release-details/2026/Allegiant-and-Sun-Country-Airlines-to-Combine-Creating-a-Leading-More-Competitive-Leisure-Focused-U-S–Airline/default.aspx