Allegiant Air, founded in 1997, is a U.S.-based ultra-low-cost carrier renowned for offering budget-friendly travel options across numerous domestic destinations. While the airline has gained popularity for its affordable fares, questions regarding its safety practices have surfaced over the years. This article delves into Allegiant Air’s safety history, examining past incidents, regulatory evaluations, fleet composition, maintenance practices, and current safety ratings to provide a balanced perspective on the airline’s safety standards.
Historical Safety Concerns
2015 FAA Monitoring
In 2015, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) increased its scrutiny of Allegiant Air following several emergency landings and aborted takeoffs. A former Allegiant mechanic alleged that dedicated maintenance steps were not consistently performed, raising concerns about the airline’s safety culture. A survey indicated that 46 of the company’s 86 aircraft had made emergency landings, all involving MD-80s, which had an average age of 29 years. In response, Allegiant stated that many of these issues occurred with the older MD-80 aircraft, which have since been replaced with Airbus A320 family aircraft.
2016 FAA Audit
In May 2016, the FAA expedited a scheduled five-year inspection of Allegiant Air’s operations. Following the audit, the FAA reportedly gave the airline a clean bill of health, noting that any safety issues identified were minor and non-systemic. Allegiant emphasized its commitment to safety and compliance with FAA regulations.
2018 “60 Minutes” Investigation
In April 2018, CBS’s “60 Minutes” aired an investigative report highlighting Allegiant Air’s safety record. The segment revealed that between January 1, 2016, and October 31, 2017, the airline experienced over 100 serious mechanical incidents, including mid-air engine failures, cabin smoke, rapid descents, flight control malfunctions, hydraulic leaks, and aborted takeoffs. John Goglia, a former National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) member, expressed concern over the high rate of unscheduled landings and in-flight emergencies. Allegiant refuted the report’s findings, labeling them as misleading, and emphasized its adherence to FAA regulations and commitment to passenger safety.
Fleet Composition and Maintenance Practices
Fleet Modernization
Allegiant Air’s fleet has undergone significant changes over the years. The airline has transitioned from operating older models like the McDonnell Douglas MD-80 series to more modern aircraft such as the Airbus A319 and A320. This shift aims to enhance operational efficiency and safety. As of 2025, the Allegiant fleet consists of the following aircraft:
| Aircraft | In Service | Orders | Passengers | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airbus A319-100 | 34 | — | 156 | |
| Airbus A320-200 | 10 | — | 177 | To be retired by end of 2025 |
| Boeing 737 MAX 7 | — | 24 | TBA | Options for 80 additional aircraft |
| Boeing 737 MAX 200 | 7 | 19 | 190 | |
| Total | 126 | 43 |
Maintenance Practices
Allegiant Air has faced scrutiny over its maintenance practices, particularly concerning its older aircraft models. The airline has addressed these concerns by emphasizing its commitment to safety and regulatory compliance. Allegiant asserts that its maintenance practices align with industry standards and regulatory requirements, and the transition to a more modern fleet is part of its ongoing efforts to enhance safety and operational efficiency.
Regulatory Oversight and Audits
The FAA maintains stringent oversight over all U.S. airlines, including Allegiant Air. In response to internal concerns and external reports, the FAA has conducted audits and increased scrutiny of Allegiant’s operations. While specific audit findings are not always publicly disclosed, the FAA’s role is to ensure that airlines comply with established safety standards. Allegiant’s positive safety ratings from certain evaluators suggest a level of compliance with these standards.
Is Allegiant Air A Safe Airline?
Despite past controversies, Allegiant Air has received positive safety ratings from reputable evaluators. For instance, AirlineRatings.com, a well-known airline safety and product rating agency, awarded Allegiant Air a 7 out of 7 safety rating. This rating considers various factors, including incident history, audits, and adherence to safety protocols. Allegiant’s efforts to modernize its fleet and address past concerns have likely contributed to this favorable assessment.
Comparative Safety Standing
When compared to other U.S. carriers, Allegiant’s safety record presents a mixed picture. Major airlines like Delta, United, and American Airlines consistently rank high in safety evaluations, benefiting from extensive resources dedicated to maintenance and safety protocols. Allegiant, operating as a low-cost carrier, faces unique challenges, including maintaining an older fleet and balancing cost constraints with safety investments. However, the airline’s recent fleet modernization and positive safety ratings indicate progress in addressing past concerns.
Passenger Experiences and Testimonials
Passenger experiences with Allegiant Air vary. Some travelers commend the airline for its affordability and efficient service, while others express concerns over mechanical issues and customer service practices. It’s essential to recognize that individual experiences can be subjective and may not fully represent the airline’s overall safety performance. Prospective passengers are encouraged to review current safety ratings and consider recent fleet and operational changes when making travel decisions.
Awards and Recognitions
Despite past controversies, Allegiant Air has received industry accolades. In June 2024, Skytrax named Allegiant the Best Low-Cost Airline in North America for that year, marking a significant achievement for the airline.
Conclusion
Evaluating Allegiant Air’s safety record involves a multifaceted analysis of historical incidents, fleet management, regulatory oversight, labor relations, and industry recognition. While the airline has faced challenges, including concerns over its former MD-80 fleet and labor disputes, it has also demonstrated progress through fleet modernization, positive safety ratings, and accolades for service quality. Prospective passengers are encouraged to consider both the airline’s past and its ongoing efforts to enhance safety and service when making travel decisions.
