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Allegiant Air Launches New Route Connecting Myrtle Beach and Atlantic City

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. e-connecting-myrtle-beach-and-atlantic-city.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Tuesday, February 17th 2026 at 19:06 GMT by WMBF News
      Locales: South Carolina, New Jersey, UNITED STATES

MYRTLE BEACH, S.C. - February 18, 2026 - Allegiant Air's recent announcement of a new, twice-weekly, nonstop route connecting Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) with Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is more than just another flight schedule update. It represents a confluence of trends: the continuing growth of budget airlines, the burgeoning popularity of secondary airports, and the sustained boom in tourism to the Myrtle Beach area.

The new service, slated to begin in May 2026, offers travelers a direct connection between the Grand Strand and the Jersey Shore. While the route might seem niche, it exemplifies Allegiant's strategy of linking leisure destinations with underserved markets - a formula that has proven successful in recent years. According to Drew Johnson, Allegiant spokesperson, "This new route provides our customers with another affordable travel option to explore the Jersey Shore." This focus on affordability is a key driver of Allegiant's success, appealing to a segment of travelers increasingly sensitive to price.

The Rise of the Ultra-Low-Cost Carrier (ULCC)

Allegiant isn't operating in a vacuum. The ULCC market - which also includes Frontier and Spirit Airlines - has been steadily expanding, challenging the dominance of traditional carriers. These airlines typically achieve lower fares by unbundling services, charging extra for everything from checked baggage to seat selection. While this model isn't without criticism (fees can quickly add up), it's clearly resonating with a significant portion of travelers. The competition amongst ULCCs is fierce, driving down fares and expanding route networks. Analysts predict further consolidation and expansion within this sector over the next few years, potentially leading to even more affordable travel options for consumers.

Myrtle Beach: A Tourism Hotspot

The choice of Myrtle Beach as a destination for expansion isn't surprising. The coastal city has experienced consistent growth in tourism for decades, and recent years have seen a particular surge in popularity. MYR has mirrored this trend, witnessing a substantial increase in passenger traffic. Data from the Myrtle Beach Regional Airport Authority indicates a 15% increase in passengers in 2025 alone, exceeding pre-pandemic levels. This growth is fueled by a combination of factors, including Myrtle Beach's relatively affordable accommodation options, family-friendly attractions, and increasingly diverse entertainment offerings. The city has successfully positioned itself as a value-driven vacation destination, attracting tourists from across the United States.

Atlantic City's Reinvention & the Appeal of Secondary Airports

While Myrtle Beach is a well-established tourist destination, Atlantic City is undergoing a period of reinvention. Traditionally known for its casinos, the city is increasingly focusing on attracting a broader range of visitors with investments in entertainment, dining, and family-friendly attractions. The increased connectivity provided by Allegiant's new route will likely play a crucial role in this revitalization.

Crucially, both airports - MYR and ACY - are considered secondary airports. These airports often offer lower landing fees and less congestion than major hubs, allowing ULCCs like Allegiant to operate more cost-effectively. However, they also present challenges, such as limited route options and potentially less frequent service. Allegiant has expertly navigated these challenges by focusing on direct, point-to-point routes that connect leisure travelers directly to their desired destinations. This strategy avoids the need to rely on connecting flights through crowded hubs.

Looking Ahead: Implications for Travelers & the Aviation Industry

The Allegiant route is a microcosm of broader trends in the aviation industry. Travelers can expect to see continued competition among ULCCs, potentially leading to lower fares and more route options. Secondary airports will likely continue to play an increasingly important role, providing a cost-effective platform for ULCC operations. And destinations like Myrtle Beach, which successfully cater to the value-conscious traveler, are poised to reap the benefits. Industry experts predict a shift towards more personalized travel experiences, with airlines offering greater flexibility and customization options. The increasing use of technology, such as mobile apps and self-service kiosks, will further streamline the travel process. While challenges such as fuel prices and labor shortages remain, the outlook for the aviation industry - and for travelers - is generally positive.