Location

In 1982, a group of pilots and flight attendants from the defunct Braniff International banded together to form their own airline with the help of businessmen in the twin cities of Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN. This group named their venture Sun Country Airlines. They partnered with locally based MLT Vacations and exclusively operated charter flights, initially flying from Sioux Falls to Las Vegas.

Sun Country had 33 employees that acted as jacks-of-all-trades in the early days. Flight attendants prepared meals and stocked beverages while pilots updated manuals and assisted in catering. They were a tight-knit bunch who loved putting in the required time to help their company succeed. The fruits of their labor appeared in the first year, producing profits after only six weeks and on-time performance of 98%.

As Sun Country grew, additional capital was needed for expansion. Two Twin Cities firms, Petters Aviation and Whitebox Advisors, joined together to acquire the airline in 2006 and began implementing a conservative growth plan. In November 2007 Petters Aviation purchased Whitebox Advisors’ share of Sun Country and remains the current owner of Sun Country. Despite an 89% increase in fuel prices year-over-year, Sun Country was one of few airlines who made money in both July and August of 2008. The airline is continuing to operate its normal flight schedule and provide the award-winning service it is known for.

As part of Sun Country’s commitment to a healthy, "green" environment, their fleet is comprised of current-generation aircraft, resulting in maximum fuel efficiency, decreased noise and reduced environmental impact. The 737NG is the most environmentally friendly and has the lowest carbon emissions per seat of any aircraft in its class. In addition, Sun Country’s aircraft offers a great experience from inflight entertainment to comfy leather seats.

Sun Country Airlines is committed to supporting the communities where they operate and where the greatest number of their employees live and work.