Five U.S. low-cost airlines have banded together to form a new industry group.
The Association of Value Airlines, announced and officially launched Monday, will serve as a “united, independent voice for the low-fare airline sector” before Congress, the executive branch, and state governments, according to a statement released on social media. Its founding members are Allegiant, Avelo, Frontier, Spirit, and Sun Country.
The AVA said it will focus on industry challenges like rising costs, outmoded regulations, limited access to key airports and gates, and inefficiencies in the U.S. air traffic control system.
“This is a pivotal moment for aviation in the United States,” the organization said. “As costs rise and competition is increasingly constrained, the value airline sector must speak with clarity and strength. AVA is here to ensure that affordable, reliable air travel remains a national priority — particularly for working families, small businesses, and underserved communities.”
The group said its members serve 96 million people, contribute $196 billion to the economy, and save passengers over $23 billion annually.
The AVA will be based in Washington, D.C. Its interim executive director is Chris Brown, a former FAA official and former staff director and counsel for the U.S. House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Subcommittee on Aviation.
Budget airlines have been slower to rebound from the COVID-19 pandemic than their larger rivals. Higher costs for labor, fuel, and aircraft parts have made it more difficult to turn a profit, and some customers have soured on no-frills flights with limited legroom and storage capacity.
Spirit filed for bankruptcy in November, citing mounting debt and years of quarterly losses. The airline later revealed it lost about $1.2 billion in 2024, mainly because of higher operating expenses. Spirit completed its restructuring and exited the Chapter 11 process in March.
Last month, in a bid to win back travelers, the airline announced it is expanding benefits from its loyalty program and launching its own version of premium seating.
Legacy carriers like American, Delta, United, and Southwest are represented by Airlines for America.
