ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Allegiant Air announced Friday it has started operating nonstop flights from Asheville Regional Airport (AVL) to Orlando International Airport (MCO) in Florida.

“These new routes will help meet the increasing demand we’re seeing for nonstop, affordable travel options in the community,” Drew Wells, Allegiant’s chief revenue officer said in a press release.

The new flights will be offered up to four times per week between the two cities.

Lew Bleiweis, President and CEO of Asheville Regional Airport, said in the airline’s release that the airport welcomes the new route.

“Allegiant continues to show incredible commitment to the western North Carolina market by adding excellent route options,” Bleiweis stated.

He predicted it would be a popular route. Asheville has become a popular destination for its beer, food and arts scene, and proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains, while Orlando is home to Disney World.

The Asheville Regional Airport is in the middle of a massive expansion plan to keep up with exponential growth in passenger numbers in recent years.

“We are proud of the Allegiant and AVL growth story and look forward to the success of this newest route,” Bleiweis stated.