Allegiant Air will introduce a first-class cabin in 2027 as the discount carrier moves to offer more premium options to customers.
The Las Vegas-based airline announced this week that select aircraft will be refitted with a two-by-two first-class section occupying the first two rows — eight seats in total. The seats are described as traditional domestic first-class recliners with calf rests, cocktail trays, extra storage and other comfort features, plus “upgraded service elements” to match the improved seating.
Allegiant expects to begin phasing the new first-class seats onto planes in 2027, with the on-board debut likely next spring. Tickets for the offering, branded “Allegiant First,” are scheduled to go on sale in mid-August. The carrier will keep its popular extra-legroom option, Allegiant Extra, in addition to the new premium cabin.
“This is about giving customers more ways to travel with us,” Allegiant chief commercial officer Drew Wells said, noting that travelers are seeking more comfort, personalization and flexibility.
The move follows a broader industry trend of low-cost carriers adding premium amenities. Frontier Airlines and JetBlue are preparing to introduce domestic first-class cabins, and Southwest has publicly discussed airport lounges. For Allegiant — long known for stripped-down cabins, rock-bottom base fares and a network serving underserved cities and vacation destinations — the shift marks a significant change in strategy.
Alongside the first-class announcement, Allegiant said it will make soft drinks, juice and water complimentary on all flights beginning Aug. 1. Customers who hold the airline’s credit card will receive an expanded set of free beverages, including alcoholic drinks, coffee, protein shakes and sports drinks.
The decision to add first class wasn’t entirely sudden. CEO Greg Anderson told reporters last summer that Allegiant was “studying” premium seating and monitoring trends before making a final call. The airline’s recent acquisition of Sun Country Airlines and plans to enhance its Allways loyalty program likely factored into the timing.
Allegiant’s first-class rollout is expected to be gradual and limited to select aircraft initially. Details on pricing, exact launch routes and which planes will be converted will be announced as the carrier moves toward the mid-August ticket sale date.
For travelers, the changes mean more choices on a carrier that has prioritized low fares and à la carte add-ons for years: a retained no-frills option, an extra-legroom product, and now a compact first-class cabin for passengers willing to pay for more comfort and service.
