TOLEDO, Ohio — Toledo Express Airport marked a major milestone Thursday night with the departure of its first nonstop flight to Sarasota, Florida , offering travelers a more affordable and convenient way to reach the Gulf Coast.

The new route, operated by Allegiant Air, connects Toledo directly to Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport and is already drawing praise from passengers and local leaders. Airport officials say the service was made possible through consistent community demand rather than grant funding.

For Owens Community College freshman Camden Pope, the flight meant finally returning home after months away.

“It's been four months since I've been home and I don't even know what to think right now,” Pope said.

Toledo resident Holly Rogers said the new route will make it s

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