9:55am | Long Beach Airport (LGB) has announced the opening of three air carrier flight slots. Allegiant airlines will discontinue service effective November 28, 2011, following a shift in business direction.

Several airlines immediately expressed interest in providing service from LGB.  The airport currently has a total of 41 air carrier slots. LGB has been experiencing more demand from the traveling public than current capacity allows.

“With the availability of these slots, we will be able to provide more choices and service to new cities with a focus on superior customer service,” noted Mario Rodriguez, Airport Director.

Allegiant has enjoyed high passenger load factors from Long Beach, but will be serving other markets with their fleet of MD-80’s. The Airport will reallocate flight slots to increase the potential to broaden flight service to better serve Long Beach travelers. 

In reallocating these three slots, the Airport is allowing for the potential to have new destinations from around the country connect to Southern California. 

While other airports have experienced declining seat capacity, passenger seat totals from Long Beach Airport have increased 4% since last year.