allegiant sun country merger budget carriers vegas.

Allegiant Air says it will acquire Sun Country Airlines in a cash-and-stock deal valued at about $1.5 billion. The merger will combine two low-cost U.S. carriers focused on leisure travel. The companies on Monday told investors that the new airline will serve about 175 cities with more than 650 routes and a fleet of about 195 aircraft. Executives say the deal will strengthen competition in the leisure travel market. The merger still needs regulatory and Sun Country shareholder approval. It is expected to close in the second half of 2026. The merged airline will be based in Las Vegas and operate under the Allegiant name.