Allegiant Air to Launch First Class Cabin and Offer Free Drinks in Economy Starting Spring 2027

Allegiant Air is set to transform its traditionally budget-focused passenger experience by launching a first class cabin branded as Allegiant First in spring 2027. This marks a notable premium expansion for the ultra-low-cost carrier, known for operating routes underserved by other airlines. The new first class will debut on select aircraft, initially serving flights to and from Fort Myers/Punta Gorda (PGD).

The Allegiant First cabin will feature eight seats arranged in a two-row, 2-2 configuration, designed to offer passengers enhanced comfort through 37 inches of seat pitch, 5 inches of recline, adjustable headrests, and calf rests. Each seat will be equipped with USB-A, USB-C, and AC power outlets, catering to modern traveler needs. Passengers in this cabin will also enjoy priority check-in and boarding, and their fare will include a personal item, a carry-on bag, and a checked bag up to 70 pounds.

Complementing the introduction of first class, Allegiant is maintaining its Allegiant Extra seating option, which provides extra legroom in economy. This dual offering aligns with the carrier's strategy to provide a tiered experience targeting leisure travelers seeking both value and premium comfort on underserved routes.

The price point for Allegiant First tickets reveals that the cabin is positioned as a significant upgrade rather than a budget alternative. For example, flights from Fort Myers/Punta Gorda to Atlantic City list economy fares starting around $87, while first class fares begin near $371. On higher-demand routes, such as from Fort Myers/Punta Gorda to Boston, economy fares start at about $429, with first class tickets reaching $674. These fares reflect the carrier’s confidence in the appeal of a premium offering despite its low-cost origins.

In addition to first class, Allegiant has introduced a free beverage service for all economy passengers effective August 1, 2026. Water, soft drinks, and juices are now complimentary, moving away from a strictly buy-on-board model. Enhanced beverage selections, including alcoholic and specialty non-alcoholic options like cold brew coffee and bloody mary mix, remain available for purchase, providing passengers more choice during their flight.

This service and product expansion follows Allegiant's acquisition of Sun Country Airlines, signaling a strategic effort to blend and elevate the customer experience across the combined leisure-focused network. Allegiant’s Chief Commercial Officer Drew Wells emphasized the goal of offering travelers more comfort, personalization, and flexibility by expanding complimentary and premium options.

Allegiant's movement towards a first class cabin places it among the growing number of U.S. carriers enhancing premium offerings, leaving Southwest as the notable major carrier yet to announce an official first class service. Allegiant’s approach underlines a broader industry trend where even ultra-low-cost carriers are adapting to demand for upgraded travel experiences.

These developments represent a significant shift for Allegiant Air, as it moves beyond purely budget-conscious operations to capture travelers seeking more amenities without switching to legacy carriers. With first class tickets now available for purchase, the airline is staking a claim in the premium leisure travel market, while the newly introduced free economy drinks improve value for its broader customer base.