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Allegiant to acquire Sun Country Airlines in $1.5 billion merger

Gerald R. Ford International Airport

Allegiant expects the merger will expand its limited international service to 18 destinations

The two airlines announced the deal Sunday, with Sun Country shareholders receiving $4.10 per share of Allegiant stock for each Sun Country share.

Combined, the two low-airfare airlines provide 22 million passengers with service to nearly 175 cities.

Minnesota-based Sun Country launched service from Gerald R. Ford International Airport in 2024 with seasonal direct flights to Minneapolis. Currently, Las Vegas-based Allegiant offers 18 direct flights from Grand Rapids.

The two companies said they will work closely with employees and their unions to ensure a smooth and transparent integration process, with existing collective bargaining agreements remaining in effect.

Allegiant expects the merger will expand its limited international service to 18 destinations.

In a release, Allegiant CEO Gregory C. Anderson stated, “We have long admired Sun Country for their well-run, flexible, and diversified business model that optimizes for year-round utilization and strong margins.”

The deal is expected to be finalized in the second half of 2026.

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Dave joined WGVU Public Media in November of 2023 after eighteen years as a Michigan Association of Broadcasters Emmy-nominated photojournalist and editor at Grand Rapids' WOOD TV8 and three years at WEYI TV25 in Flint, Michigan. As a General Assignment Reporter, Dave covers daily news and community events all over West Michigan.
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