Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF/JKA) is entering a new chapter of growth. Beginning May 2026, Allegiant will now connect Gulf Shores & Orange Beach to five new cities, offering nonstop seasonal service from Springfield, Missouri (SGF); Louisville, Kentucky (SDF); Huntsville, Alabama (HSV); Omaha, Nebraska (OMA); and Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (OKC). These flights will operate two flights per week to each destination and run through the peak summer season. Flights start in time for Memorial Day and continuing into mid‑August, bringing more visitors and more opportunities to Alabama’s beach communities.
This announcement builds on Allegiant’s recent expansion of service to Appleton, WI (ATW) Des Moines, IA (DSM), Knoxville, TN (TYS), Nashville, TN (BNA), Kansas City, MO (MCI), Belleville/St. Louis (BLV), Cincinnati, OH (CVG), and Northwest Arkansas/Bentonville (XNA). With the addition of the five new cities, Gulf Shores International will now serve a total of 13 nonstop destinations—a milestone that reflects both the strength of the airport’s partnership with Allegiant and the growing demand for convenient access to Alabama’s beaches.
"Today’s announcement marks a major milestone in the continued growth and success of Gulf Shores International Airport and our entire region. The addition of five new nonstop destinations through Allegiant strengthens our connection to key markets across the country and reinforces what we’ve long known: Gulf Shores and Orange Beach are destinations people want to visit, return to, and invest in," said City of Gulf Shores Mayor, Robert Craft. "We are proud to partner with Allegiant and the Gulf Shores Airport Authority to make air travel more accessible and convenient for both our residents and the millions of visitors who choose Alabama’s beaches each year. This addition brings new opportunities for our local businesses, supports job creation, and enhances the quality of life for our community. As we look ahead to the terminal expansion and continued investment in our airport infrastructure, we remain committed to smart, sustainable growth that benefits those who call Gulf Shores home, and those just visiting. The future is bright, and we’re just getting started."
The positive impact and reach of the new air service is clear. Passenger surveys show that nearly half of Allegiant’s passengers using the airport had never visited Alabama’s beaches before commercial service began, and 80% of those surveyed indicated they plan to return more often now that nonstop flights are available. For the community, this means new visitors discovering the destination, expanded travel options for residents, and increased economic activity that supports local businesses and jobs.
To prepare for the future, Gulf Shores International is investing in its facilities. The airport has engaged Fentress Architects to design a $15 million terminal expansion that will accommodate two simultaneous aircraft operations. Planned improvements include new gate areas, expanded baggage claim, and increased curb frontage for vehicle access. The airport is pursuing all financing opportunities and options as groundbreaking is tentatively planned for Summer 2026, with completion targeted for May 2027—just in time for another busy summer season.
Airport Director Jesse Fosnaugh noted the success is not by accident: “Allegiant’s leisure‑focused business model and low fares are a perfect match for our destination. In addition, the airport authority, cities of Gulf Shores and Orange Beach, Alabama’s Beaches, and business leaders havecultivated an environment where Allegiant can be successful. It’s a recipe for success. Many airlines and the communities are reducing air service; stagnate in their growth. Allegiant has done just the opposite here in Gulf Shores. The dream of air service has taken off, literally.”
Tickets to all destinations served from Gulf Shores International can be booked now at Allegiant.com