Allegiant Airlines is known for rock-bottom fares, flying out of smaller airports, and getting travelers to sunny destinations on a budget. But if you've Googled them before, you may have seen some alarming headlines—and it's only natural to wonder: Is Allegiant Airlines actually safe?
Allegiant at a Glance
| Founded | 1997 |
| Headquarters | Las Vegas, Nevada |
| Fleet Size (2025) | ~120 aircraft |
| Average Fleet Age | ~13.7 years |
| Fatal Crashes (Lifetime) | 0 |
| FAA Certified | Yes |
| Known For | Ultra-low-cost fares, small-city routes |
Crash and Incident History
Has Allegiant ever had a fatal crash?
No. Despite some past controversy, Allegiant has never experienced a fatal crash in its 25+ years of flying.
However, their reputation took a hit in the mid-2010s due to:
- Mechanical failures (mostly minor, but frequent)
- Emergency landings due to smoke or warning lights
- A highly publicized 2016 "60 Minutes" report criticizing safety culture
Since then, the airline has:
- Replaced its aging MD-80 fleet with Airbus A319/A320s
- Overhauled maintenance protocols
- Passed multiple FAA audits and IOSA safety checks
Verdict: Allegiant has no fatal crashes, but does have a rocky safety reputation that's improved considerably.
Fleet and Maintenance
| Feature | Allegiant Airlines |
|---|---|
| Aircraft Types | Airbus A319, A320 |
| Average Fleet Age | ~13.7 years (one of oldest in U.S.) |
| Maintenance Providers | Contracted, with FAA oversight |
| Fleet Upgrades | Retired all MD-80s by 2018 |
Older planes can still be safe with proper maintenance—and Allegiant's Airbus fleet is simpler and more standardized than in previous years.
Verdict: Allegiant's fleet is older than most, but newer than it used to be—and well within FAA standards.
Pilot and Crew Training
Allegiant is required to follow FAA Part 121 regulations, meaning:
- Rigorous simulator and emergency response training
- Crew must be certified in decompression, fire suppression, evacuation, and first aid
- Pilots train for engine-out scenarios, adverse weather, and short-runway landings
Allegiant's crews often fly into regional airports, which can involve:
- Shorter runways
- Less infrastructure for emergencies
- Less frequent flights, reducing flexibility in response options
Verdict: Allegiant crews are well-trained, but operational complexity is slightly higher due to smaller airports.
Nervous Flyer Experience
If you're prone to flight anxiety, here's what to expect:
| Factor | Allegiant Experience |
|---|---|
| Cabin Communication | Inconsistent, depends on crew |
| Turbulence Updates | Less frequent than Southwest or JetBlue |
| Cabin Comfort | Basic, limited amenities |
| Inflight Distractions | Few—bring your own device |
Allegiant doesn't offer free Wi-Fi or entertainment. This can make flights feel more isolating or intense for nervous travelers—especially during turbulence or long delays.
Verdict: Allegiant is safe, but not ideal for anxious flyers who need strong communication and comfort.
FAA Findings and Safety Ratings
Key facts:
- Allegiant passed its FAA audits after the 2016 criticism
- Joined the IATA Operational Safety Audit (IOSA) registry
- Made significant improvements in scheduling, aircraft upkeep, and internal reporting culture
- No major regulatory safety issues reported in the past several years
Verdict: Allegiant is now fully FAA and IOSA-compliant, and far safer than its outdated reputation may suggest.
💡 Pro Tip: Since Allegiant provides minimal in-flight entertainment and communication, the SkyCalm app becomes crucial for managing flight anxiety through guided breathing, safety education, and calming techniques.
How Allegiant Compares (2025)
| Airline | Fatal Crashes | Avg Fleet Age | Nervous Flyer Comfort | Safety Oversight |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allegiant | 0 | ~13.7 yrs | Low-Medium | FAA + IOSA |
| Spirit | 0 | ~7.1 yrs | Medium-High | FAA + IOSA |
| JetBlue | 0 | ~9.4 yrs | High | FAA + IOSA |
| Southwest | 1 (2018) | ~12 yrs | High | FAA |
| Frontier | 0 | ~4.2 yrs | Medium | FAA |
Final Thoughts: Is Allegiant Safe?
Yes — Allegiant is safe. But it comes with context:
✅ Positives:
- FAA and IOSA certified
- Zero fatal accidents
- Major safety reforms since 2016
- Airbus fleet with modern systems
⚠️ Considerations:
- Older aircraft than most
- More basic inflight experience
- Communication can vary by flight crew
If you're flying Allegiant, you're statistically very safe—but expect a no-frills experience with less emotional comfort than bigger airlines.
Flying Allegiant and Want Extra Support?
SkyCalm provides comprehensive flight anxiety management designed for budget carriers, offering the emotional support and safety education that ultra-low-cost airlines don't provide.
Download SkyCalm on iOSRemember
Allegiant's post-2016 safety improvements, combined with zero fatal crashes and full regulatory compliance, make it a legitimate choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking basic but safe transportation.