The move marks the debut of commercial service at North Texas’ third airport, setting up a direct challenge to regional giants American Airlines and Southwest Airlines, News.Az reports, citing The Dallas Morning News.
Avelo will base two 184-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft at McKinney, rolling out the new routes on a staggered schedule:
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November 11 (Veterans Day): Fort Myers, FL (Southwest Florida International) — 2x weekly (Wed/Sat)
November 12: Las Vegas, NV (Harry Reid International) — 4x weekly (Mon/Thu/Fri/Sun)
November 12: Orlando, FL (Orlando International) — 5x weekly (Mon/Thu/Fri/Sat/Sun)
November 19: Fort Lauderdale, FL (Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood) — 5x weekly (Mon/Thu/Fri/Sat/Sun)
November 19: Tampa, FL (Tampa International) — 4x weekly (Mon/Thu/Fri/Sun)
The expansion coincided with the grand opening of McKinney’s brand-new passenger terminal. According to Airport Director Ken Carley, the project aims to save Collin County locals time and money.
Avelo CEO Andrew Levy noted that the new base will bring more than 100 local jobs to the community. To entice travelers, introductory fares will start at $99, and the airline is offering a promotion where customers get their first checked bag free for bookings made through July.
Avelo’s low-cost, unbundled model arrives at a volatile time for ultra-low-cost carriers, following the high-profile collapse of Spirit Airlines earlier this year.
While Avelo previously only offered a single North Texas flight out of DFW International Airport (to New Haven, Conn.), this aggressive expansion into McKinney establishes a major foothold in one of the fastest-growing regions in America.
