Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) —  Gulf Shores International Airport is preparing for a busy summer travel season as passenger traffic continues to rise. Airport officials say new nonstop flights and increased service will attract more travelers to the area. The airport is also implementing changes to improve the passenger experience. Leaders expect this summer to be the busiest since commercial service began.

On Friday, May 1, 2026, the airport announced that new nonstop destinations will begin service later in May. Allegiant flights from Omaha, Nebraska, and Huntsville, Alabama, will start on May 21, 2026. Flights from Oklahoma City, Oklahoma; Louisville, Kentucky; and Springfield, Missouri, will start on May 22, 2026.

With the addition of routes, airline activity is expected to reach 30 flights per week. Gulf Shores International Airport Director Jesse Fosnaugh said traffic has steadily increased since service began on May 21, 2025. He added that this summer will likely bring the highest level of activity to date.

"We know this summer will be quite busy and at times congested with all of the new destinations and frequency of flights," Fosnaugh said. "We have implemented several new elements within the terminal to create a positive experience for our customers."

To handle the increase, the airport has adjusted pickup and drop-off areas and added more parking. New amenities have also been added to the outdoor prescreening area. Travelers will be greeted by live music from local musician Just Roger and food service from Trauma Hogs.

Volunteers from the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber will also be on site to assist travelers. CEO Greg Alexander said the group is ready to welcome visitors. "Our Ambassador volunteers are proud to offer a warm coastal welcome," he said.

Airport officials are also advancing long-term improvements. A $15 million terminal expansion project is scheduled to be bid on May 4, 2026. Construction is expected to begin later this summer.

The expansion will connect to the existing terminal and add more boarding gates, expand curbside space, increase the baggage claim area, and add a new outdoor patio. Gulf Shores Mayor Robert Craft said the project reflects strong demand since airline service began.

"We've seen remarkable demand since the start of airline service in May of last year, and this project is about keeping pace with that growth in a responsible way," Craft said.

Gulf Shores International Airport sits on 838 acres, about three miles from the beach. Since launching commercial service, it has expanded to serve 13 nonstop destinations. A recent survey found that 43% of passengers had never visited the area before the airport began commercial flights.