CONCORD, N.C. — Allegiant Air is expanding at Concord Regional Airport.

The airline announced Wednesday that it plans to spend $50 million on a new base of operations at the airport. It claims it will bring 66 high-wage jobs averaging more than $70,000 per year and host a pair of Airbus A320s.

“Since Allegiant’s first flight from Concord-Padgett Regional Airport in 2013, their growth has been truly remarkable,” Concord Mayor Bill Dusch said. “We are very pleased that Allegiant has selected Concord for a new base of operations, which brings new jobs and travel opportunities for the citizens of Concord and the Charlotte region. We look forward to continue developing our partnership with Allegiant in the future.”

The new base is set to begin operations in October. It'll be the 21st such base for Allegiant nationwide.

“We’re excited about making Concord a permanent base, and further establishing Allegiant as a hometown airline for this high-performance city,” said Keith Hansen, Allegiant’s vice president of government affairs. “With a growing and diverse population seeking affordable vacation travel, and as a regional destination for race enthusiasts, arts fans and more, Concord is an ideal location for an Allegiant base. Having locally-based operations will mean opportunities for expanded hours, as well as more — and more frequent — flight offerings for residents and visitors alike.”

The Las Vegas-based company currently employs more than 4,300 team members across the U.S. and plans to immediately begin hiring pilots, flight attendants, mechanics, and ground personnel. More information can be found on Allegiant’s website.