Allegiant Travel Company’s $50 million project to create a Concord airport base has been put on hold, amid the financial blow the travel industry is feeling from the coronavirus pandemic.
The base is expected to create at least 66 jobs and accommodate two Airbus aircraft at Concord-Padgett Regional Airport. The company, which operates Allegiant Air, was scheduled to open the base in October, but that is likely to be delayed until 2021, spokeswoman Hilarie Grey said in an email.
The city of Concord and Cabarrus County are giving Allegiant a maximum of $123,650 in incentives for the project, but the money isn’t given out until the investment is made, said Concord spokeswoman Allyson Sigmon.
Allegiant is reducing its flight capacity by 80% to 90% for April and May, Grey said, including at Concord. Sigmon said the carrier hasn’t operated a flight out of the airport since March 22.
“We’re disappointed, but we understand,” said Concord Mayor Bill Dusch. “We’ll be ready when things start to move around and they’re ready to start on their base operation.”
The airline has seven nonstop routes out of the airport, where it has been operating since 2013. The airline was starting to look at hiring for the base, but that’s been suspended, Grey said.
The Independent Tribune in Concord reported that the city’s airport was slated to receive $2 million under the federal stimulus package. Dusch said the funding will help ensure that the airport can continue operating.
Danielle Chemtob
The Charlotte Observer (TNS)