Low-cost airline Allegiant Air announced last Friday that it would end service to and to Cleveland Hopkins International Airport at the end of this year.

Hopkins became the only mid-size airport in the country to be served by three low-cost carriers when Allegiant joined Spirit and Frontier in Cleveland in 2017. It had previously operated in northeastern Ohio from Canton. -Akron.

Over the next four years, Allegiant did not gain much ground against the other two budget airlines in the Cleveland market and currently only accounts for 3% of flights to Hopkins with its seven direct flights, all south-facing, leisure destinations like Orlando and Hilton Head.

In a statement, Allegiant blamed the impending departure on rising costs associated with Hopkins’ construction projects.

“Unfortunately, with the airport construction projects and its major expansion, the cost structure has become prohibitive to our operation – our business model is based on our ability to keep fares low for our customers. It’s the hallmark of our service, ”a representative said in a statement to local outlets. “Our flights have been very successful in the market. ”

Hopkins released a brief statement over the weekend regarding the news:

“We are disappointed to learn of Allegiant Air’s decision to exit the Northeast Ohio market. They have provided the region with low fares to many destinations. While this is disappointing, we understand that it is part of every airline’s decision-making process, especially in these difficult times. While travelers to northeast Ohio will miss these destinations through Allegiant, they will still be available to travelers outside of CLE Airport through our other eight carriers, who will continue to provide service despite challenges of the global pandemic. CLE is still in runway service to accommodate 6.9 million passengers in 2021, exceeding the national average for the recovery. In 2022, CLE should welcome 8.5 to 8.8 million customers.

All travelers with Allegiant tickets in 2022 will be fully reimbursed.