Atlantic City International Airport is entering a new phase of strategic expansion as Allegiant announces the launch of a nonstop route connecting South Jersey directly to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina — a move that strengthens the region’s position as a growing hub for affordable leisure travel and enhances transportation accessibility for residents across the Garden State.
The newly announced service, revealed February 17, represents the latest step in Allegiant’s aggressive growth strategy at Atlantic City International Airport and signals continued momentum in regional air transportation development. With introductory one-way fares starting as low as $49 and service scheduled to begin May 21, 2026, the route reflects increasing demand for convenient, budget-friendly travel options while reinforcing South Jersey’s evolving role within the broader East Coast transportation network.
For New Jersey travelers, the route provides direct access to one of the nation’s most sought-after coastal destinations. For regional planners and transportation leaders, it represents a significant economic and infrastructure milestone — one that aligns with broader efforts to expand connectivity, stimulate tourism, and strengthen mobility throughout southern New Jersey.
A Strategic Expansion for Atlantic City International Airport
The launch of nonstop service between Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) and Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) marks another major development in the airport’s transformation into a key regional gateway for leisure travel.
Allegiant Chief Commercial Officer Drew Wells emphasized the airline’s continued investment in the South Jersey market, noting that the expansion reflects both strong consumer demand and the company’s long-term growth strategy.
“We’re thrilled to continue Allegiant’s growth in Atlantic City by adding this new route,” Wells said, highlighting the airline’s focus on connecting travelers to high-demand vacation destinations at competitive prices. The airline’s business model prioritizes direct service between regional airports and popular leisure markets, a strategy that has steadily increased passenger traffic at Atlantic City.
The Myrtle Beach route builds upon a series of recent Allegiant additions at ACY, including new flights to Punta Gorda and St. Pete–Clearwater introduced earlier this year, along with previously launched service to Fort Lauderdale and Orlando/Sanford in December. Together, these routes create a growing portfolio of nonstop options linking South Jersey travelers with major vacation destinations throughout the Southeast.
This steady expansion reflects a larger shift in regional air travel patterns, with secondary airports like Atlantic City increasingly serving as cost-effective alternatives to larger metropolitan hubs.
Transportation Impact for South Jersey and Beyond
Regional transportation officials view the new route as a major advancement in mobility and economic opportunity for South Jersey residents.
South Jersey Transportation Authority Executive Director Stephen Dougherty described the service as a meaningful enhancement to regional accessibility, emphasizing both consumer convenience and broader economic benefits.
“We’re excited to see Allegiant add service to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina,” Dougherty said. “For our passengers, this opens the door to a classic getaway with 60 miles of beaches, headline attractions like the SkyWheel, and a destination known by many as the Golf Capital of the World. For our region, it means more easy, affordable access to one of the East Coast’s most popular vacation spots.”
The new route also reinforces ongoing investments in New Jersey’s transportation infrastructure, where expanding air connectivity complements improvements across highway, rail, and regional transit systems. Enhanced air service supports tourism growth, strengthens business travel opportunities, and contributes to long-term economic development strategies throughout southern New Jersey.
For residents across Atlantic, Cape May, Camden, Gloucester, and Burlington counties — as well as nearby portions of Pennsylvania and Delaware — the route provides a convenient alternative to longer drives or complex multi-stop travel itineraries.
Myrtle Beach: A High-Demand Leisure Destination
Myrtle Beach remains one of the most recognized tourism markets on the East Coast, attracting millions of visitors annually with its extensive coastline, entertainment attractions, and recreation-driven economy.
The destination features more than 60 miles of Atlantic Ocean beachfront, a wide range of resort accommodations, nationally recognized golf courses, and major attractions including the Myrtle Beach SkyWheel, boardwalk entertainment districts, and family-oriented theme venues. Its reputation as the “Golf Capital of the World” continues to draw enthusiasts from across the country.
By offering direct access to Myrtle Beach, the new Atlantic City route positions ACY as a gateway to high-value leisure experiences while reducing travel barriers for New Jersey vacationers seeking accessible coastal getaways.
The addition also reflects a broader trend in domestic travel behavior, with consumers increasingly prioritizing shorter trips, direct routes, and value-focused airfare options.
Low-Cost Travel and Consumer Demand
Allegiant’s continued expansion at Atlantic City underscores growing demand for affordable leisure travel options in the post-pandemic travel environment. Industry analysts note that travelers are placing greater emphasis on price transparency, nonstop routes, and simplified booking experiences — all central features of Allegiant’s operating model.
The airline’s introductory fares for the Myrtle Beach route begin at $49 for one-way travel, available for purchase through February 18, 2026, for travel through November 2026. As with most promotional pricing, seat availability is limited and certain restrictions apply, but the offering reflects the company’s commitment to value-driven service.
The low-cost model has proven particularly effective in regional markets, where travelers benefit from direct connections without the congestion or higher costs associated with major international airports.
By focusing on high-demand vacation destinations and streamlined operations, Allegiant continues to reshape regional air travel economics while increasing accessibility for budget-conscious consumers.
Economic Benefits for the Region
Beyond passenger convenience, the expansion carries meaningful economic implications for Atlantic City and the broader South Jersey region.
Increased flight activity supports job creation across airport operations, hospitality services, tourism industries, and transportation sectors. Higher passenger volumes also generate secondary economic benefits for local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and retail establishments.
Transportation development experts note that enhanced connectivity strengthens regional competitiveness by attracting visitors, supporting workforce mobility, and encouraging private investment. The steady growth of Atlantic City International Airport aligns with broader economic revitalization efforts throughout the region, reinforcing South Jersey’s position as an emerging transportation and tourism hub.
Strengthening New Jersey’s Transportation Network
The Myrtle Beach route also fits within a larger framework of transportation expansion initiatives across New Jersey, where state and regional leaders continue to prioritize infrastructure modernization and enhanced mobility.
From airport development and transit improvements to highway upgrades and regional planning initiatives, transportation investment remains central to the state’s economic strategy. Expanded air service at Atlantic City complements these efforts by increasing connectivity and supporting long-term growth objectives.
The addition highlights the importance of diversified transportation systems that provide residents with flexible, efficient travel options while supporting tourism and economic activity.
A New Chapter for Atlantic City Air Travel
As Allegiant continues to build its presence at Atlantic City International Airport, the launch of nonstop service to Myrtle Beach represents more than a new travel option — it signals a broader transformation in how South Jersey connects with major destinations along the East Coast.
The route reflects rising demand for accessible vacation travel, strategic infrastructure investment, and a growing regional commitment to expanding transportation capacity. With service beginning May 21, travelers will soon gain direct access to one of America’s premier beach destinations while Atlantic City strengthens its role as a gateway for affordable, convenient air travel.
For New Jersey residents seeking streamlined travel experiences, competitive pricing, and expanded destination choices, the continued growth of Atlantic City International Airport marks a significant development in the state’s evolving transportation landscape — one that positions South Jersey at the forefront of regional mobility and leisure travel innovation.
