Columbia, S.C.: Exciting New Travel Options to Florida Coming in 2025!
Hey there, Columbia! Buckle up because you’re about to have some fantastic, wallet-friendly travel options that are just around the corner! Starting in May 2025, travelers from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) will be able to hop on low-cost flights to Florida, thanks to Allegiant Air’s new routes. That’s right – no more maxing out your credit card when you need a sunny getaway!
What’s New?
Allegiant Air is rolling out the red carpet in the Capital City with two exciting nonstop routes:
- Daytona Beach/Sanford via Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) kicking off on May 15, 2025.
- Fort Lauderdale/Miami through Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) starting on May 22, 2025.
And the best part? Fares for these routes begin as low as $39 for Daytona Beach and $49 for Fort Lauderdale. Can you say “beach vacation” without breaking the bank?
What Travelers Are Saying
The buzz around town is palpable with many travelers feeling optimistic about this news. Some have expressed their frustrations after comparing costs of flights out of Columbia to those from neighboring airports like Charlotte. With ridiculous price tags sometimes reaching up to $1300 for a change of flight, many people are more than ready for these affordable options!
As traveler Matt Tripicchio puts it, “I’d rather sit around for the flight that is a quarter of that price.” Well said, Matt! This new service certainly makes flying from Columbia more appealing than ever.
What Division Do They Have Now?
It’s important to note that until now, CAE hasn’t had any budget airlines swooping in to offer year-round Florida routes. Presently, the airport is mainly served by United, American, and Delta airlines. With the new nonstop flights, CAE is tapping into a market that craves **more options** and affordable fares, especially for those long weekend escapes.
Leisure Travel Surge
CAE Vice President of Marketing and Air Service Development, Kim Crafton, is thrilled about the timing of this expansion, noting a trend of increasing leisure and business travel in the region. “These new destinations are perfect for weekend trips or quick vacations. People in the community are ready to travel and Allegiant recognizes that!” she adds.
With their projections, the airport is set to surpass pre-pandemic numbers from 2019, marking the largest passenger count in a decade. By the end of this year, CAE is expected to serve a whopping 1.4 million passengers! Talk about hitting those travel heights!
Support Local, Travel Local
The excitement doesn’t stop at just travel. Crafton also emphasizes the importance of flying out of our local airport which not only supports the region’s economy but keeps those travel dollars right where they belong — in Columbia!
So, if you’ve been itching to hit the beaches of Florida or soak up the sun in Miami, mark your calendars for May 2025! Pack your bags and prepare for an affordable getaway that the whole family can enjoy. Columbia, your travel vibes are about to get a major upgrade!
