The Smart Marty Sky Dispatch
Allegiant Air Cuts More Sun Country Flights From Minneapolis Despite “Really Strong” Demand
Allegiant cuts more Sun Country flights at Minneapolis despite strong demand, as pilot shortages and Delta's growing presence threaten competition.
Allegiant Air plans further reductions to Sun Country Airlines’ passenger schedule at Minneapolis–Saint Paul International Airport, despite London-wide demand in the Twin Cities being described as exceptionally strong.
The reductions are tied to Sun Country’s pilot staffing levels, which remain below what is needed to operate the planned services. This staffing constraint limits the ability to run the scheduled flights, according to commentary from Allegiant.
The statements came during Allegiant’s third-quarter 2026 earnings call, held on November 4, with CEO Greg Anderson noting the staffing shortfall as a factor behind the schedule cuts.
The developments follow Allegiant’s May acquisition of Sun Country, and they raise questions about how quickly the Minnesota-based carrier can rebuild its network after the deal.
Allegiant’s continued cuts at Minneapolis come amid competitive pressures from Delta and a growing presence in the market, according to the earnings call discussion.