Sun Country, Allegiant Announce Merger, Pledge Strong MSP Presence

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — Sun Country Airlines and Allegiant Air announced Saturday that they plan to merge, a deal that would keep Sun Country’s operations anchored in the Twin Cities while creating one of the largest leisure-focused airlines in the United States.

Under the agreement, Allegiant will acquire Sun Country in a cash-and-stock deal valued at about $1.5 billion, including debt.

Sun Country shareholders would receive cash and Allegiant shares for each share they own.

After the deal closes, Allegiant shareholders would own about 67 percent of the combined company, with Sun Country shareholders owning about 33 percent.

The merged airline would serve roughly 22 million passengers a year, fly nearly 200 aircraft, and offer more than 650 routes to about 175 cities. Both airlines focus heavily on low-cost, vacation-oriented travel, often connecting smaller or mid-sized cities to popular leisure destinations.

Company leaders emphasized that Minneapolis–St. Paul will remain an important base of operations. Sun Country is headquartered in the Twin Cities and has long been a major presence at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport.

Sun Country CEO Jude Bricker said the merger represents the next chapter for the airline, which has operated in Minnesota for more than four decades. Allegiant CEO Gregory Anderson said the combination will expand access to affordable travel and add more vacation destinations for passengers.

For travelers, the airlines say the deal could mean more nonstop routes and additional international options. Sun Country currently flies to destinations in Mexico, Central America, Canada, and the Caribbean, which would become available to more Allegiant customers. The companies also plan to combine their loyalty programs, creating a larger rewards network.

Sun Country’s business extends beyond passenger flights. The airline operates cargo aircraft for Amazon Prime Air and flies charter routes for sports teams, casinos, and the U.S. military. Allegiant also runs charter operations. Company officials say those year-round operations help keep planes flying even when leisure travel slows.

There are no immediate changes planned for customers. Ticketing, flight schedules, and branding will remain the same while the deal is reviewed by regulators.

The merger must still be approved by federal regulators and shareholders of both companies. If approved, the companies expect the deal to close in the second half of 2026.