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Avelo Airlines is an ultra-low-cost carrier operating a fleet of approximately 16 Boeing 737-800 and 737-700 aircraft across 5 core bases after a major January 2026 restructuring that closed 3 bases, retired 6 aircraft, and cut 3,000+ flights. It is headquartered in Houston, Texas, and employs approximately 180 pilots with no pilot union. Andrew Levy serves as Founder, Chairman, and CEO.
For interview purposes, the simplest way to frame Avelo is this: it is a young ULCC founded by Andrew Levy (former President of Allegiant Air, former CFO of United Airlines) that launched in April 2021 as the first new U.S. airline in approximately 15 years. Avelo differentiates itself by operating from secondary airports (New Haven, Wilmington/ILG, Concord/Charlotte) to avoid congestion and TSA lines. The airline is in a significant transition: it underwent a major network and fleet restructuring in January 2026 — closing three bases, retiring six 737-700s, and cutting 29% of its Q2 schedule — while simultaneously having placed a firm order for 50 Embraer E195-E2 jets (plus 50 options) with deliveries starting mid-2027. Avelo was also involved in a controversial ICE deportation flight program that it ended in January 2026. Avelo's starting pilot pay is notable: $131/hour FO Year 1 and $240/hour Captain Year 1 — among the highest for a startup carrier.
Sources listed at the end of each profile. Data compiled from public filings, airline newsrooms, AirlinePilotCentral, Glassdoor, FAA records, and industry publications.