Allegiant Air & Southwest Airlines are two giants in the world of budget travel, offering affordable fares that make air travel accessible to many. Despite their shared focus on low-cost flights, each has its own approach to service, fleet, and pricing. This comparison by HolidayGlobes explores how these carriers stack up against each other when it comes to value for money.
Which one is better: Southwest or Allegiant?
Allegiant serves slightly more destinations, with 125 compared to Southwest's 121. However, Southwest’s network is more diverse, spanning 12 countries, while Allegiant operates only within the U.S.
Southwest operates 3,800 routes, far more than Allegiant's 530, offering more frequency and variety of travel options.
Southwest boasts a significantly larger fleet of 777 Boeing 737 aircraft, compared to Allegiant’s 128 Airbus A320s. This size difference allows Southwest to cover a larger network and have more flexibility.
The average age of Southwest’s fleet is younger at 7.4 years, whereas Allegiant’s fleet is much older at 15.8 years, potentially affecting maintenance and fuel efficiency.
In terms of punctuality, Allegiant leads with 79.31% on-time arrivals, while Southwest trails slightly behind at 77.77%, making Allegiant a slightly better choice for those prioritizing timeliness.
Looking ahead, Southwest has 398 Boeing 737 MAX orders, significantly more than Allegiant’s 50, signaling a stronger fleet expansion for Southwest in the coming years.
Perks of Both Airlines
Southwest Airlines offers more generous seating options than Allegiant, with its Boeing 737-700 having a 31-inch seat pitch and the 737-800 and MAX 8 models offering 32-33 inches, which is ideal for passengers who appreciate extra legroom. With seat widths of 17.5 inches, it strikes a balance between comfort and space for travelers.
On the other hand, Allegiant Air provides seating with a range of 30-34 inches on its A319-100 aircraft, with the larger A320 offering a tighter 28-29-inch pitch. While it offers slightly more capacity, with the A319 seating 156 passengers and the A320 seating 186, the seat pitch can feel a bit cramped, especially on the larger A320, where the seats are 17 inches wide.
When it comes to baggage, Southwest stands out with its excellent policy. Passengers can bring two free checked bags and two pieces of hand luggage. Allegiant, a more budget-conscious airline, charges for most luggage beyond a personal item, with fees ranging from $10 to $75 for overhead bins. This can quickly offset any savings made on cheaper fares.
Which one is costlier between the two?
Allegiant is generally the more affordable option when compared to Southwest Airlines, as seen with their non-stop fare from Las Vegas to Oklahoma City. On March 9th, Allegiant offers a flight for as low as $48, while Southwest's fare is significantly higher at $173. This price difference reflects the contrasting business models of the two carriers.
Allegiant's lower fares come with more basic services, making it a more budget-friendly choice. On the other hand, Southwest's higher prices are in line with its offerings, which include additional amenities such as free checked bags and more flexible seating arrangements. So, if you're looking for the cheapest ticket, Allegiant may be your go-to. However, the extra services on Southwest could be worth the higher cost for some passengers.
Conclusion
When deciding between Allegiant and Southwest Airlines, the choice depends on your travel needs. Allegiant shines with its lower fares, especially for shorter trips with light luggage. If you're looking for flexibility, more flight options, and the benefit of included luggage, Southwest offers a better all-around experience, though at a higher cost. Ultimately, the decision comes down to how much you prioritize convenience versus savings, with both airlines catering to different types of travelers. For more insights into the two, you can dial 1 (702) 505-8888 for Allegiant, 1-800-435-9792 for Southwest or call HolidayGlobes at 1-888-595-2181.
