Allegiant Air says it will invest $50 million to add 16 seats to each of its 150-seat McDonnell Douglas MD-80 aircraft by the end of 2012, bringing the seating capacity of these planes up to 166.
The low cost carrier operates 48 such planes, and will push nine more into service over the next two years. Their fleet of three 130-seat MD-87 aircraft will not be modified.
Galleys will be removed to make room for the added seats, as well as other modifications.
The additional seats will require an extra flight attendant on board to comply with FAA safety regulations.