I Took the First Flight on Avelo, America's Newest Airline — Here's What It Was Like

On April 28th, I had the unique opportunity to be on the inaugural flight of Avelo Airlines, America's newest low-cost carrier. Flying from Burbank (BUR) to Santa Rosa (STS), I was eager to experience what Avelo had to offer and see if it could live up to its promise of affordable and convenient travel. Here's a detailed look at my experience, from booking to landing.

Booking and Pre-Flight Experience

The booking process on the Avelo website was straightforward and user-friendly. The interface is clean and uncluttered, making it easy to find flights and select options. The base fares are undeniably attractive, especially for short-haul routes within California. Keep in mind that, like most budget airlines, ancillary fees apply for things like checked baggage, seat selection, and even carry-on bags exceeding personal item dimensions. Transparency in these fees is crucial, and Avelo presents them clearly during the booking process.

Check-in was smooth, with friendly staff at the Burbank Airport. Burbank is a fantastic airport to fly out of; small, convenient, and less stressful than LAX. The gate area was clean and well-maintained. There was a palpable sense of excitement surrounding the inaugural flight, with many passengers eager to try out the new airline.

The Flight Experience

Avelo currently operates a fleet of Boeing 737-800 aircraft. The cabin was clean and felt relatively modern. Seat pitch was decent for a budget airline, although taller passengers might find it a bit tight. I was impressed by the fact the aircraft had in-seat power (USB ports), a rarity these days even on more established airlines. This alone is a big plus for those who want to stay connected during their flights.

The flight attendants were enthusiastic and provided excellent service. They were clearly proud to be part of the Avelo team, and their positive attitude contributed to a pleasant in-flight atmosphere. The buy-on-board menu offered a selection of snacks and drinks at reasonable prices. I opted for a coffee, which was perfectly acceptable.

The flight itself was uneventful and on time. The pilots provided clear and informative announcements throughout the journey. Landing in Santa Rosa was smooth, and the entire experience felt professional and well-managed.

Key Takeaways: Pros & Cons

To provide a clear and concise summary, here's a table outlining the key pros and cons of my experience flying with Avelo:

Who is Avelo Airlines For?

Avelo Airlines is ideally suited for budget-conscious travelers looking for short-haul flights between specific destinations. If you are flexible with your travel dates and willing to pack light to avoid baggage fees, you can score some incredible deals. The convenience of flying out of smaller airports like Burbank can also save you time and hassle compared to larger, more congested airports like LAX.

However, if you require checked baggage, prefer a guaranteed seat assignment, or need to connect to other destinations, you'll need to factor in the additional costs or consider alternative airlines. As Avelo expands its route network, it will likely become an even more attractive option for a wider range of travelers.

Final Verdict

My first flight on Avelo Airlines was a positive experience overall. The airline offers a compelling value proposition for those seeking affordable and convenient travel. While the ancillary fees can be a factor, the low base fares and friendly service make Avelo a worthwhile option to consider for short-haul flights. I am optimistic about Avelo's future and look forward to seeing how it evolves and expands its network in the coming years. I would definitely fly with them again.

Keep in mind that this was only one flight. The experiences can vary from flight to flight, especially in the early days of a new airline. Always check the latest information regarding Avelo's policies and route network before booking your flight.