ST. CLOUD -- Central Minnesota air travelers are showing Allegiant Airlines they want to fly out of St. Cloud.

The airline began direct flight air service between St. Cloud and Mesa, Arizona back in December. And, St. Cloud Airport Director Bill Towle says in the month of January, 97% of the seats were sold on the nine flights. He says Allegiant and airport officials were hoping for a 90% "load factor."

Towle says they'll use the positive numbers to try to convince Allegiant to add direct flights to other destinations like Florida, Las Vegas or Texas.

Towle says February is also off to a strong start and doesn't think the numbers will fall off too much come summer. He says the Phoenix, Arizona area is promoting St. Cloud as a summer destination with fishing, golf and enjoyable weather.

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