Two sources with firsthand knowledge Allegiant’s operations but not authorized to speak on the carrier’s behalf tell MRO Network that while the airline’s issues were real, management is making positive strides and understands the importance of establishing an effective safety culture.
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Allegiant, a low-priced carrier based in Las Vegas, operates flights out of Lehigh Valley International Airport to several Florida destinations.
Kreig says there are Allegiant representatives at the Plattsburgh airport to talk to any passengers who have concerns. “They must adhere to FAA rules and regulations and it appears they continue to do that”.
Other Allegiant customers, however, reported more positive experiences.
The report does acknowledge a “sharp drop-off” in Allegiant service issues after the airline and the FAA knew they were working on the story.
Allegiant has consistently claimed one of the best safety records in the industry. “And we’ve seen some problems with the contractors that they’ve used. I had not had any complaints come through the BBB office about the Moline service”.
Reports from the FAA show that Allegiant was three times more likely to break down than other large airlines.
Allegiant sent the Messenger-Inquirer a copy of its response to the CBS report, saying, “The FAA exercises rigorous oversight of Allegiant, as they do all airlines operating in the United States”.
“They don’t have the number of mechanics”, Goglia told “60 Minutes” for its report.
Today, the budget airline still serves St. Pete/Clearwater but has added seasonal flights to Myrtle Beach, S.C., and, as of November, to Orlando and Punta Gorda, Fla.
“We’re sitting there in an aluminum tube with no escape if the guy putting fuel in the airplane had an accident or mistake and started a fire”, he says.
Bill Nelson is calling for an investigation into the FAA for its reported handling of an Allegiant Air’s poor safety record.
“Allegiant complies with all FAA requirements and participates in numerous voluntary safety programmes to ensure we operate to the highest standards”.
Allegiant, which has never had a crash, noted that it has carried 90 million passengers safely since beginning operations in 2001 and that it has less than a third as many MD-80s in its fleet as Delta.
“Sometimes you get painted with a big broad brush, you know, they say Allegiant Airlines everybody thinks Allegiant everywhere, but we’ve had flawless runs here”, said Manns.
“My husband offered to drive me from Florida after hearing that report, yes, but I feel okay”, said Terra Thompson.
WTOL 11 reached out to the Toledo Lucas County Port Authority. However, we ask that you refer to Allegiant or the FAA for any specifics. Allegiant has been very good for the people in the area who want to take a vacation.
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Shares of the company continue to fall in the aftermath of the report on the low-priced carrier.
