Allegiant Air, citing strong demand, has reversed its earlier decision to end service between Chattanooga and Fort Lauderdale.

The discount airline will continue the nonstop flights from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport on Nov. 20, officials said today.

“Due to persistent and persuasive community efforts, stronger than anticipated summer bookings and significant decreases in fuel costs, we will continue to offer the Chattanooga community convenient and inexpensive access to sunny South Florida,” Allegiant Chief Executive Officer Maurice J. Gallagher Jr. said.

The airline is marking the news with introductory fares as low as $59 one-way to Fort Lauderdale.

Mike Landguth, the airport’s chief executive, said Allegiant Air has been a great addition to the airport.

“Local travelers will continue to benefit from their low fares, as well as the competition that comes with the return of our 10th nonstop destination from Chattanooga,” he said.

Allegiant had stopped the nonstops to Fort Lauderdale on Sept. 6.

See tomorrow’s Times Free Press for a full story.