Akron-Canton adds airline, destinations

Akron-Canton Airport is adding an airline and new destinations.

Allegiant Travel Co., which offers airline service and specializes in travel to vacation spots, will begin operations at Akron-Canton in May.

The airline plans to fly to Savannah-Hilton Head International Airport in Georgia, St. Petersburg-Clearwater International Airport in Florida, and Myrtle Beach International Airport in South Carolina. Flights to Savannah and St. Petersburg are set to begin May 21, while Myrtle Beach flights start June 5. Plans are for the Tampa-St. Petersburg service to be offered year-round, while the Savannah and Myrtle flights will be seasons through Aug. 15.

Allegiant plans to fly 166-seat McDonnell Douglas MD-80 and 177-seat Airbus A320 jets from Akron-Canton.

Airport and airline officials are set to formally announce the service Tuesday morning.

Allegiant is thrilled to expand at Akron-Canton, said Jude Bricker, Allegiant Travel Company senior vice president of planning. “As the area’s first ultra-low fare airline, we’re excited to offer local travelers the opportunity to save even more on their vacation with our industry-low fares.”

Likewise, Akron-Canton officials are happy to welcome Allegiant. “Northeast Ohio travelers love these three terrific destinations, so we expect the new flights to be very popular. Welcome and thanks for choosing CAK,” said Rick McQueen, airport president and chief executive officer said in a statement