When it comes to affordable air travel, budget airlines are often the first choice for travelers looking to save some cash. Avelo Airlines, a relatively new player in the budget airline industry, has quickly gained attention for its low-cost flight offerings across the U.S. But is it really worth flying with Avelo? In this comprehensive review, we’ll dive into the Avelo flight experience, weighing the pros and cons, and helping you decide if budget flying with Avelo is a good fit for your travel needs.
What is Avelo Airlines?
Avelo Airlines is a low-cost carrier that launched its operations in April 2021, with a mission to offer cheap, no-frills air travel. It primarily serves smaller airports across the U.S., helping to avoid the crowds and hassles that come with larger hubs. With a focus on low prices and convenience, Avelo has quickly positioned itself as an alternative for travelers seeking affordable airfare without the need for extensive amenities or high-end services.
The airline has its main bases in Burbank, California, and New Haven, Connecticut. From these locations, Avelo offers direct flights to popular destinations like Las Vegas, Orlando, and Nashville, catering to both leisure and business travelers.
Avelo Flights: The Booking Process
Avelo Flights can be easily booked through the airline’s website. The website is user-friendly, allowing travelers to quickly compare routes and prices. One of the key features that stands out is the transparency of fees. Unlike some other budget airlines, Avelo clearly outlines what’s included in the base fare and what additional charges you might incur for services like seat selection, checked baggage, or priority boarding.
If you’re flexible with your travel dates, Avelo’s fare calendar can help you score even cheaper deals by displaying the lowest available fares over a month-long period.
What to Expect on an Avelo Flight
1. Low Fares, No Frills
The biggest selling point of Avelo flights is the affordability. The base fare often rivals that of other major budget airlines like Spirit and Frontier, but the cost savings come at the expense of certain amenities. For instance, there is no in-flight entertainment or complimentary food and drink service. However, if you’re flying a short domestic route, this might not be a dealbreaker, especially for travelers who prioritize price over comfort.
2. Baggage Policy
Avelo’s baggage policy is straightforward but important to consider when calculating the total cost of your flight. The base fare includes one personal item, like a small backpack or purse, which must fit under the seat. However, carry-on bags and checked luggage are subject to additional fees, which can add up if not planned for in advance.
It’s worth noting that Avelo offers a prepay discount for baggage fees when paid online during the booking process, so if you’re bringing extra luggage, it’s a good idea to pay upfront and save.
3. Seating and Legroom
Avelo flights generally feature a standard seating configuration. Seats are relatively comfortable but basic, with about 29 to 30 inches of pitch (the distance between one seat and the seat in front of it), which is on par with other low-cost carriers. You can pay extra for preferred seating, which includes more legroom and priority boarding.
While the seating is adequate for short-haul flights, passengers flying on longer routes may find it a bit cramped, especially without the option of in-flight entertainment.
Avelo Airlines Customer Service
One area where Avelo shines compared to other budget airlines is its customer service. Reviews from Avelo passengers frequently praise the airline’s staff for being friendly, helpful, and attentive. Avelo Airlines operates with the belief that even budget travelers deserve great service, and this attitude is reflected in the positive feedback from customers.
Additionally, Avelo’s smaller airport focus often translates into shorter lines at check-in and security, making the overall airport experience much less stressful for travelers.
Pros of Flying with Avelo
- Low Fares: Avelo offers some of the cheapest flight tickets in the U.S., making it an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers.
- Smaller Airports: By flying into and out of smaller regional airports, Avelo helps you avoid the hassle of busy hubs like LAX or JFK.
- Friendly Staff: Avelo’s customer service is frequently mentioned as a highlight by passengers, offering a more personable touch compared to larger airlines.
- Transparent Fees: Unlike some budget carriers, Avelo is clear about additional fees, allowing travelers to make informed decisions during the booking process.
Cons of Flying with Avelo
- Limited Routes: As a newer airline, Avelo’s route network is still growing, which means your options for destinations might be more limited compared to major carriers.
- No In-flight Entertainment: If you’re expecting Wi-Fi or seatback screens, you’ll need to bring your own devices and entertainment for the journey.
- Extra Fees for Baggage and Seat Selection: As with most budget airlines, the base fare only covers a personal item, and you’ll need to pay extra for things like carry-on bags, checked luggage, and preferred seating.
Is Budget Flying with Avelo Worth It?
So, is it worth flying with Avelo? The answer largely depends on what kind of traveler you are. If you’re looking to save money on airfare and are willing to forgo some amenities, Avelo Airlines offers excellent value for your money. The low fares, combined with the convenience of flying out of smaller airports, make Avelo a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind a more basic flying experience.