Budget travelers are getting more affordable access to one of the most popular teams in college football, thanks to Allegiant Air’s latest partnership.
The low-cost airline has been named the Official Airline Partner of Notre Dame Athletics and will bring new travel options and experiences to fans of the Fighting Irish. The Las Vegas-based carrier has operated flights to and from South Bend, Indiana, where Notre Dame’s campus is located, since 2005.
As such, Allegiant has transported many of the university’s students, faculty, alumni, and sports fans over the years. Under the new, multi-year partnership, Allegiant will also begin to transport the university’s athletic teams to and from South Bend International Airport (SBN).
"We're pleased to welcome Allegiant's partnership and mutual commitment to investing in the South Bend community," said Jim Fraleigh, Notre Dame’s deputy athletics director, corporate relations. "We look forward to connecting generations of Fighting Irish across the country with affordable, reliable travel and unforgettable game-day experiences."
The airline also says it will connect Notre Dame fans to the university’s athletic teams at “various points” during the collegiate sports season and also offer sweepstakes for “unforgettable gameday experiences.”
Many airlines launch limited-time routes and special flight schedules during both the college football and NFL seasons to capitalize on anticipated travel between specific cities whose teams will meet on the gridiron.
With the new collaboration, Allegiant can work on “solidifying South Bend as a vital node in its national flight network,” as well as expanding nonstop flights at SBN, the airline said. Currently, the budget airline operates eight routes out of South Bend, including new service to Fort Lauderdale, Florida (FLL), that launches this week and coincides with Notre Dame’s football game against the University of Miami.
"With a shared commitment to excellence, it is a natural fit for Allegiant to align our brand with Notre Dame Athletics," said Drew Wells, Allegiant's Chief Commercial Officer. "We have been flying Notre Dame students and alumni for two decades, and we know sports have the universal power to unite people with a common goal of celebrating their favorite teams. We're excited to expand our presence in the South Bend community and welcome The Fighting Irish on board."
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