US Airlines Push Congress for Fair Gate Access

Leaders of Allegiant Air and Frontier Airlines have called on Congress to reform how airport gates are allocated in the United States, arguing that the current system limits competition and unfairly favors major carriers. Speaking before the Senate Judiciary antitrust subcommittee, Allegiant CEO Greg Anderson and Frontier CEO Barry Biffle urged lawmakers to adopt “use it or lose it” rules similar to slot allocation policies at congested airports.

Both executives represent the Association of Value Airlines (AVA), a coalition formed in 2025 that also includes Avelo, Spirit, and Sun Country Airlines. The group advocates for fairer market access and improved conditions for low-cost carriers. Biffle emphasized that many airport gates remain under long-term control by large airlines, restricting opportunities for smaller players to expand services.

Anderson proposed that Congress pass an Airport Gate Competition Act or similar legislation requiring at least one-third of gates in new terminal projects at major hubs to be designated as common-use facilities. This would allow multiple airlines to operate from shared gates, promoting flexibility and fair access.

Sharon Pinkerton, representing Airlines for America, countered that the greatest challenge facing the aviation industry lies in outdated air traffic control systems, not gate access. However, both Allegiant and Frontier agreed that modernizing ATC infrastructure remains critical.

Biffle also pointed to other barriers to competition, including restrictive slot rules, frequent flyer programs, and rigid pilot training requirements, calling for regulatory updates that better support low-cost carriers and consumer choice.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com