Allegiant Air officially completed its merger with fellow budget carrier Sun County Airlines, according to a May 13 announcement.
"Today marks a defining moment in Allegiant's history as we officially join forces with Sun Country to create the leading leisure-focused airline in the United States," said Allegiant CEO Gregory C. Anderson in a press release.
The combined company will operate a fleet of 195 aircraft to serve 175 cities and over 650 routes. Sun County's hub in Minneapolis-St. Paul will still remain "an important operating center" for Allegiant as the two airlines integrate.
The merger between the two low-cost carriers was first announced in January, in a deal valued at around $1.5 billion including debt. It was later approved by federal regulators and shareholders of both companies.
Under the acquisition, Allegiant said it anticipates around $140 million in annual synergies over the next three years following closing and integration. Frontline roles and operational employees will stay in their current positions, although there may be overlap at the corporate level.
