LEHIGH VALLEY, Pa. – Lehigh Valley travelers who fly with Allegiant know there’s no such thing as first class seating onboard the economy carrier’s jets.

That’s going to change.

Allegiant is rolling out what it’s calling Allegiant First. The carrier stopped short of calling it first class, instead referring to it as “an upgraded seating experience.” But it sounds a lot like first class, or at least business class.

Whatever you want to call it, the new seating class will consist of eight seats, arranged in a two-by-two setup at the front of the plane. Allegiant said the seats will have a five-inch recline, calf rests, and adjustable headrests in addition to more legroom and a 37-inch pitch.

There will also be “enhanced amenities and upgraded service elements,” Allegiant said, without offering more details.

In addition, Allegiant First passengers will get priority access to check in and board their flights. The fare will include one personal item, one carry-on bag, and one checked bag up to 70 pounds.

The carrier hasn’t said how much of an upcharge the service will be. Seats will go on sale in mid-August. And not all Allegiant planes will have the upgrade; it will debut and be phased in on “select aircraft” in 2027, the carrier said.

Allegiant First does not replace Allegiant Extra, which allows travelers to purchase extra legroom seats. 

But here’s a perk for all Allegiant flyers: as of August 1, customers will receive complimentary beverage service on all flights. Soft drinks, juice, and water are among the freebies. “Elevated” drinks, like coffee, sports drinks, and alcohol, are not, Allegiant said, unless you’re an Allways Rewards Visa cardholder.

Allegiant is in the process of continuing its integration with another budget carrier, Sun Country Airlines. The premium seating initiative and complimentary beverages will help the combined airline better serve a wider range of leisure travelers – from budget-conscious customers to those seeking a more elevated vacation experience, Allegiant said.

“This is about giving customers more ways to travel with us,” said Allegiant’s Chief Commercial Officer, Drew Wells, in a news release. “As we bring together two highly complementary leisure airlines, we see a significant opportunity to expand complementary and premium offerings in a way that strengthens the customer experience and supports the long-term growth of the combined company. Travelers are increasingly looking for more comfort, more personalization and more flexibility, and these new offerings are a meaningful step forward in delivering that.”

Allegiant is one of four airlines that serve Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE) in Hanover Township, Lehigh County. It offers nonstop flights to 11 destinations from ABE, including eight in Florida.