SALISBURY, Md.- As WBOC first reported Tuesday, Allegiant Air is coming to Delmarva. The non-stop jet service will make its debut on Feb. 16, 2012 at the Salisbury-Ocean City:Wicomico Regional Airport, with twice-weekly flights to Orlando, Fla., the home of Disney World.
During a press conference held Wednesday morning, Allegiant officials announced that the airline is offering introductory fares of $59.99 one-way, which must be purchased by Dec. 28, 2011 and used by May 15, 2012.
It has been a tough secret to keep for the airline's PR Manager, Kristine Cooper. She says the Eastern Shore is a perfect fit for Allegiant.
"Salisbury is a community that fits right into our business model. Allegiant looks to under served communities to provide non-stop jet service to what we have termed world class leisure destinations," Cooper explains.
Delmarva travelers can't wait for the service to debut.
"I think that's awesome, 'cause I'm going to Disney World soon," shares Katiann Stevens of Millsboro.
"I think it's wonderful, I think people are going to love it," echoes her mother, Elizabeth Stevens.
And something extra to love; low fares.
For a limited time, you can get yourself a seat on a jet for just $59.99 each way.
"How do I locate that?" asks John Brienza.
There's a reason he wants to know. He's on his way back home to Florida but has to make a stop in Charlotte first.
"Tampa is about an hour away and Orlando airport is maybe a little bit more but if it's a direct flight then that would be great," he says.
Bringing Allegiant to the peninsula is something airport manager Bob Bryant has been working toward for his entire 18 year career.
"These are what airport managers at airports with scheduled airline service basically work for or even live for," he says.
Allegiant Air first approached the airport about beginning service there back in December of 2008.
As you'll recall, the airport had to complete a runway extension project before it could happen.
More information can be found by visiting www.allegiant.com.
Effective Feb. 16, Allegiant Air will begin offering non-stop jet service from the Salisbury-Ocean City: Wicomico Regional Airport to Orlando, Fla. (Photo: WBOC)
