Allegiant adds nonstop service from Missoula to Portland as routes expand

The travel options out of Missoula International Airport continue to expand, this time with Allegiant Airlines announcing nonstop service to Portland.

The new flight, announced on Tuesday, brings to six the number of nonstop routes offered by the discount carrier out of Missoula.

“We are fortunate to receive this excellent news during a time when air service is challenged globally,” said Matthew Doucette, chair of the Missoula County Airport Authority.

For the first time in nearly a decade, the Missoula airport saw its year-end passenger count drop below the prior year. Airport officials attributed it to the pandemic and the public's apprehension to fly.

But already, the numbers are trending back up and as a vaccine becomes more widely available, the airport expects passenger counts to return to prior levels, especially as fairs remain near historic lows.

Allegiant's new flight to Portland begins twice weekly on May 7 and one-way fares can be found for as low as $59.

“We are excited to see Allegiant add yet another nonstop destination to MSO,” Doucette said. “They have been a great community partner and will provide another low-cost alternative for our passengers."

Allegiant has long served Las Vegas and Mesa, Arizona, out of Missoula. It also provides seasonal nonstop service to Oakland, which is set to begin on May 27, and Los Angeles, which resumes the following day.

This year, it will begin service to Orange County, California, and Portland.

“These new routes will give Montana residents the chance to visit a city that serves as a gateway to some great outdoor experiences,” said Drew Wells, Allegiant’s senior vice president of revenue.

Also this year, Alaska Airlines will launch new nonstop service from Missoula to San Jose, San Francisco, San Diego and Los Angeles. It also provides service to Portland International Airport.