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Allegiant Air Expands at Paine Field with New Routes

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. -air-expands-at-paine-field-with-new-routes.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Wednesday, January 21st 2026 at 4:53 GMT by KIRO-TV
      Locale: UNITED STATES

EVERETT, Wash. - January 21st, 2026 - Budget-friendly airline Allegiant Air is significantly bolstering its presence at Paine Field (PAE) in Everett, Washington, announcing new non-stop routes to Fresno, Ontario, and Phoenix, effective March 2026. This expansion represents a key investment in the Pacific Northwest market and underscores a wider trend of travelers seeking alternatives to the increasingly congested Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA).

The announcement, delivered by Allegiant Air spokesperson John Smith, highlights the airline's commitment to providing accessible and affordable travel options for residents of the Pacific Northwest. "We're thrilled to be expanding our service at Paine Field and providing even more convenient and affordable travel options for our customers," Smith stated. "These new routes will connect the Pacific Northwest with some of California and Arizona's most popular destinations."

Why Paine Field? A Regional Alternative Gains Traction

Paine Field's resurgence in popularity isn't a sudden development. For years, the airport has served as a crucial regional hub, offering a more intimate and often less chaotic travel experience than its larger counterpart, SEA. However, recent years have witnessed a marked increase in traffic. This surge is driven by a confluence of factors, including rising passenger frustration with SEA's crowded terminals, lengthy security lines, and sometimes unpredictable traffic patterns. Paine Field, with its smaller scale and more streamlined operations, provides a compelling alternative, particularly for travelers seeking shorter trips and more direct routes.

Allegiant's decision to expand its presence is a strong endorsement of Paine Field's growing importance. The airline typically targets underserved markets and focuses on leisure travel, and the Pacific Northwest fits neatly into that profile. The new routes to Fresno, Ontario, and Phoenix offer a gateway to popular Californian destinations known for their agricultural bounty and vibrant urban centers, as well as the sunny landscapes and outdoor recreation opportunities of Phoenix and surrounding Arizona.

Route Details & Booking Information

While specific flight schedules and frequencies have not yet been released, tickets for the new routes are already available for booking directly on Allegiant's website ([ https://www.allegiantair.com/ ]). Passengers can expect to find Allegiant's signature a-la-carte pricing model, allowing for customization of travel packages and potentially lower base fares. However, travelers should be aware of potential additional fees for baggage, seat selection, and other services. Given the anticipated demand, early booking is highly recommended to secure desired travel dates and prices.

Looking Ahead: Paine Field's Continued Growth

Allegiant's expansion is likely to spur further investment and development at Paine Field. While the airport has a limited capacity compared to SEA, ongoing discussions are exploring potential infrastructure upgrades to accommodate the increased traffic. These could include improvements to runway capacity, terminal facilities, and parking options. The arrival of Allegiant's new routes also suggests that other airlines may be considering expanding their services at Paine Field, further solidifying its role as a key regional travel hub.

The increased demand at Paine Field highlights a broader trend in the aviation industry - the desire for more personalized and convenient travel experiences. While SEA remains a vital international gateway, Paine Field is carving out a distinct niche by offering a focused, accessible, and often more affordable alternative for travelers in the Pacific Northwest seeking to reach destinations in California and Arizona.

Impact on Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA)

While Paine Field's growth is positive for regional travelers, its increasing popularity may, to a small degree, impact passenger volume at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. However, SEA's role as a major international hub and its connectivity to a wider range of destinations will likely ensure its continued prominence. The two airports are expected to coexist and cater to different segments of the travel market.