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37 Facts About Sun Country Airlines

Jermaine Chaudhry

Written By: Jermaine Chaudhry

Published: 23 Oct 2025

Expert Verified Editorial Guidelines
37 Facts About Sun Country Airlines

Sun Country Airlines might not be the first name that pops into your head when thinking about air travel, but this carrier has some interesting quirks and facts that might surprise you. Did you know that Sun Country started as a small charter airline in 1982? Based in Minneapolis, this airline has grown significantly over the years, now offering flights to over 50 destinations. From its unique business model to its focus on customer service, Sun Country has carved out a niche in the aviation industry. Whether you're a frequent flyer or just curious, these 37 facts will give you a fresh perspective on this fascinating airline.

Table of Contents
01History of Sun Country Airlines
02Fleet and Destinations
03Services and Amenities
04Unique Aspects
05Safety and Awards
06Environmental Initiatives
07Future Plans
08Final Thoughts on Sun Country Airlines

History of Sun Country Airlines

Sun Country Airlines has an interesting history that spans several decades. Here are some key facts about its origins and development.

  1. Founded in 1982: Sun Country Airlines was established in 1982 by a small group of pilots and flight attendants.

  2. First Flight in 1983: The airline's inaugural flight took off in January 1983, flying from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, to Las Vegas, Nevada.

  3. Headquarters in Minnesota: The airline is headquartered in Eagan, Minnesota, a suburb of the Twin Cities.

  4. Bankruptcy in 2008: Sun Country filed for bankruptcy in 2008 due to financial difficulties but managed to emerge from it in 2011.

  5. Acquired by Apollo Global Management: In 2018, Apollo Global Management acquired Sun Country Airlines, giving it a fresh financial boost.

Fleet and Destinations

Sun Country Airlines operates a diverse fleet and serves numerous destinations. Here are some facts about their aircraft and routes.

  1. Boeing 737-800: The airline primarily uses Boeing 737-800 aircraft for its flights.

  2. Fleet Size: As of 2023, Sun Country operates a fleet of over 30 aircraft.

  3. Domestic and International Destinations: The airline serves more than 50 destinations across the United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

  4. Seasonal Routes: Sun Country is known for its seasonal routes, especially to warm-weather destinations during the winter months.

  5. Focus Cities: Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport is the primary hub, with focus cities including Dallas/Fort Worth and Las Vegas.

Services and Amenities

Sun Country Airlines offers various services and amenities to enhance the passenger experience. Here are some notable features.

  1. Sun Country Rewards: The airline has a frequent flyer program called Sun Country Rewards, allowing passengers to earn points for future travel.

  2. In-Flight Entertainment: Passengers can enjoy in-flight entertainment through personal devices using the airline's streaming service.

  3. Bistro Onboard: Sun Country offers a buy-on-board food and beverage service called Bistro Onboard.

  4. First Class: The airline provides a first-class cabin on select flights, offering more spacious seating and premium services.

  5. Pet-Friendly: Sun Country allows small pets to travel in the cabin for a fee.

Unique Aspects

Sun Country Airlines has some unique aspects that set it apart from other carriers. Here are a few interesting facts.

  1. Charter Services: The airline offers charter services for sports teams, corporate groups, and other organizations.

  2. Military Support: Sun Country has a long history of supporting the military, including transporting troops and their families.

  3. Cargo Operations: In addition to passenger flights, the airline operates cargo services, including contracts with Amazon.

  4. Employee-Owned: Before being acquired by Apollo Global Management, Sun Country was an employee-owned company.

  5. Community Involvement: The airline is actively involved in community service, including partnerships with local charities and organizations.

Safety and Awards

Sun Country Airlines prioritizes safety and has received several awards over the years. Here are some key points.

  1. Safety Record: The airline has maintained a strong safety record throughout its history.

  2. FAA Certification: Sun Country is certified by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and adheres to strict safety standards.

  3. Top 10 Budget Airlines: In 2019, Sun Country was named one of the top 10 budget airlines in the world by AirlineRatings.com.

  4. Customer Satisfaction: The airline consistently receives high marks for customer satisfaction, particularly for its friendly service.

  5. Operational Excellence: Sun Country has received awards for operational excellence, including on-time performance and reliability.

Environmental Initiatives

Sun Country Airlines is committed to environmental sustainability. Here are some of their green initiatives.

  1. Fuel Efficiency: The airline focuses on fuel-efficient operations to reduce its carbon footprint.

  2. Recycling Programs: Sun Country has implemented recycling programs on its flights and in its offices.

  3. Carbon Offsetting: Passengers can participate in carbon offset programs to mitigate the environmental impact of their travel.

  4. Eco-Friendly Products: The airline uses eco-friendly products, such as biodegradable utensils and recyclable packaging, in its onboard services.

  5. Partnerships: Sun Country partners with environmental organizations to support conservation efforts.

Future Plans

Sun Country Airlines has ambitious plans for the future. Here are some of their upcoming initiatives.

  1. Fleet Expansion: The airline plans to expand its fleet with additional Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

  2. New Routes: Sun Country aims to introduce new routes to underserved markets, both domestically and internationally.

  3. Technology Upgrades: The airline is investing in technology upgrades to enhance the passenger experience, including improved booking systems and mobile apps.

  4. Sustainability Goals: Sun Country has set ambitious sustainability goals, including reducing greenhouse gas emissions and increasing fuel efficiency.

  5. Customer Experience: The airline is focused on improving the overall customer experience, from check-in to arrival.

  6. Employee Training: Sun Country is investing in employee training programs to ensure high standards of service and safety.

  7. Community Engagement: The airline plans to increase its community engagement efforts, including more partnerships with local organizations and charities.

Final Thoughts on Sun Country Airlines

Sun Country Airlines offers a unique blend of affordability and quality. With low-cost fares, seasonal routes, and a focus on customer service, it’s no wonder travelers keep coming back. Their fleet of Boeing 737s ensures a comfortable ride, while their commitment to safety provides peace of mind. Plus, the Sun Country Rewards program adds extra value for frequent flyers. Whether you’re planning a domestic trip or an international adventure, Sun Country has options to suit your needs. Their partnerships with vacation packages make it easy to book an entire trip in one go. So next time you’re looking for a reliable, budget-friendly airline, consider Sun Country. You might just find it’s the perfect fit for your travel plans. Safe travels!

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