McAllen, TX - June 14, 2024 - McAllen International Airport (MFE) announced the inauguration of its non-stop flight from Tampa-St. Petersburg, Florida to McAllen, Texas in partnership with Allegiant Airlines. St. Petersburg, Florida, or, The Sunshine City, is a popular travel destination known for its beautiful beaches, cultural attractions, vibrant arts scene and clear sunny skies.
This inauguration marks a significant milestone in McAllen's journey to enhance connectivity and promote tourism. The collaboration between McAllen International Airport, Allegiant Airlines, and the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport reflects the collective efforts to create memorable and hassle-free travel experiences for passengers nationwide.
Jeremy Santoscoy, P.E., Director of Aviation for McAllen International Airport, expressed gratitude to Allegiant Airlines for their close collaboration, emphasizing the airline's commitment to providing nonstop flights to popular destinations, reducing travel time, and enhancing convenience for passengers.
“I think this is an incredible milestone for McAllen International Airport, this is now our 8th non-stop flight to a premier destination,” Santoscoy said. “We are also very excited to see our relationship with Allegiant Airlines grow.”
Mayor Javier Villalobos, a distinguished speaker at the event, highlighted the economic importance of direct flights, citing their impact on local economies and job creation. He emphasized the importance of travel and tourism in supporting various industries to drive economic growth. The flight not only facilitates leisure travel but also fosters business relations between McAllen and Tampa-St. Petersburg, paving the way for future opportunities.
“Non-stop flights like this do a lot more than just connect two destinations,” Mayor Villalobos said. “They connect people, opportunities, economies and help make dreams happen.”
City of McAllen Manager, Roel “Roy” Rodriguez, P.E., also spoke at the inaugural event and shared his excitement about the future of McAllen International Airport. Last year alone, nearly 1 million passengers flew in and out the McAllen International Airport; City Manager Rodriguez noted that non-stop routes like this will only continue to make the city flourish.
“The McAllen International Airport doesn’t just serve our community, it supports our entire region.” City Manager Rodriguez said.
As part of the celebration, McAllen International Airport announced a special giveaway for its social media followers, offering a chance to win two roundtrip tickets to Tampa, Florida, courtesy of Allegiant Airlines. Participants can enter by visiting FLYME.COM or take a selfie at the NONSTOP SUMMER Selfie Station.
When entering, social media followers should tag @McAllenInternationalAirport and submit a photo to the giveaway form. The giveaway ends July 31, 2024, and the winner will be announced on August 1, 2024. The lucky winner will be randomly selected and contacted directly by MFE’s official social media pages.
The McAllen International Airport also has a Nonstop summer perk available for its passengers. Each day a traveler uses MFE’s short term parking, they will receive $5 off.
McAllen International Airport extends its gratitude to all involved in making this inaugural flight a reality. The airport looks forward to welcoming travelers from Tampa-St. Petersburg, showcasing McAllen's hospitality, warmth, and inviting community.
McAllen International Airport is the Rio Grande Valley’s favorite airport.
For more information, visit www.mcallenairport.com and follow us on social media @McAllenAirport.
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