Avelo, new airline based in Houston, launches with $19 flights

HOUSTON, Texas -- A new low-cost airline based in Houston announced it's set to launch commercial flights out of a Los Angeles airport.

Avelo Airlines said Thursday it will begin flying April 28 to 11 destinations from Hollywood Burbank Airport. It has one-way fares starting at $19.

Avelo's inaugural routes focus on smaller airports in California. Other destinations include Oregon, Colorado and Montana.

The carrier will fly Boeing 737s.

Avelo's fares include no change fees or call center fees for customers who choose to make reservations by phone.

Avelo was started by a longtime airline executive who thinks there is room for another low-fare carrier besides the several budget airlines already in the market.

"There are too few seats in the United States being offered by low-cost carriers. That's why we think the opportunity is huge," said Avelo Chairman and CEO Andrew Levy. "Customers want a really inexpensive way to get from Point A to Point B."

While Avelo calls Houston its corporate home, it didn't immediately express plans to add any of the city's airports as destinations.

While Houstonians won't be able to save major bucks on the ultra-low fares, Avelo is offering a number of jobs based out of the city. If you're on the job hunt, you can check out Avelo's open position on its website.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.