Since the first plane hit the ground about four months ago, Gulf Shores International Airport (GUF/JKA) has had over 40,000 travelers to date, making the airport's first season a "resounding success."

Jesse Fosnaugh, GUF airport director, said the airport, which started flying commercial routes this spring, saw an average load factor — an aviation term for boarded passengers divided by total seats — of 70% across all flights. This was "remarkable" given GUF is a new commercial airport that only had six destinations in its first season.

A recent Aviation Week Network article on GUF's success stated it has become Alabama's third-busiest airport.

Fosnaugh said passengers have noted the convenience of the new Gulf Shores location for Allegiant flights, referencing a time he took a flight from Northwest Arkansas to coastal Alabama, turning an 11-12-hour car ride into a flight that lasted a little over an hour. While on the flight, some of his fellow passengers said, "We're never driving again."

Since flights began on May 21, over 616 cars have been rented from the airport's rental car service in addition to over 650 Uber and Lyft trips to and from the airport. Fosnaugh said several shuttle and taxi services are also in operation at GUF.

"One of the biggest takeaways from the flights this year is that people are thrilled with flying into GUF," Fosnaugh said. "Many people are exhausted and tired of driving for hours to get to Gulf Shores and Orange Beach. Not only that, but they also like the nonstop nature of the flights. … The travel experience is just smooth and easy."

Fosnaugh said the summer season exceeded expectations. The "strongest performer" out of the six destinations was Belleville/St. Louis (BLV). Allegiant was "pleased with the success" of the initial flights, and Fosnaugh said he expects most of the destinations to return next summer alongside new flight routes.

Later this year, three new destinations will be available for flights to and from GUF, including Appleton, Wisconsin, (ATW) taking off Oct. 2, Des Moines, Iowa, (DSM) starting Oct. 3 and Nashville, Tennessee, (BNA) leaving on Nov. 21.

Fosnaugh said he encourages all residents to take advantage of these flights.

"Allegiant is designed for the weekend getaway," he said. "Most flights leave on a Thursday or Friday and return Sunday or Monday. Go to Allegiant.com and just look at the possibilities."

An announcement on next year's spring and summer destinations is expected later this year.

Discussions with other airlines are taking place, and GUF is "keeping the door open" for further expansions. Fosnaugh said Allegiant is a "fantastic partner" and that GUF plans to see continued growth with the airline.