Let’s Get to Know America’s Most Iconic Ultra Low Cost Sky Traveller, Spirit Airlines!
Let’s be real for a second. Anyone who is chronically online knows “Spirit Airlines” at least by name, even though they are not necessarily Americans. Thanks to all of those internet trolls, the organisation gets free PR without even trying, ultimately making money as usual!
But jokes aside, you must have wondered what Spirit Airlines is all about. That explains why you decided to check up on us!
So, without further ado, let’s get right into it! Let’s get to know Spirit’s real deal!
What Country Is Spirit Airlines From?
Spirit Airlines is a US based ultra low cost carrier headquartered in Miramar, Florida. Founded in 1983, it started out as a charter airline before transforming into one of America’s biggest budget travel brands. Today, Spirit operates more than 500 flights daily to over 80 destinations across the US, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Their goal is to make flying accessible to everyone, especially for those who choose lower fares over legroom and comfort.
Why Are Spirit Airlines So Cheap?
At Spirit, you pay for your seat, and only your seat. Which means, everything else (carry-ons, checked bags, snacks, water), and even seat assignments, cost extra. This “à la carte” model is what allows Spirit Airlines flights to stay so affordable. Unlike other traditional flights, Spirit does not bombard you with complimentary service, which actually is what makes the tickets pricey!
This also does not mean that you have to stay hungry and dehydrated throughout the flight! You can pack and bring homemade sandwiches, chips, or even a full snack box to munch on if you want. You are allowed to bring water and soft drinks to quench your thirst. Water bottles, however, must be refilled at the terminal once you walk past the security checkpoint.
Want to bring a bag? That is where Spirit Airlines baggage fees come in. Spirit Airlines baggage policy allows one personal item (like a small backpack or purse) that fits under the seat for free. But the moment it is larger, it’s classified as a “carry on”. And yes, you guessed it, that is another fee!
Spirit Airlines personal item size: 18 x 14 x 8 inches
Spirit Airlines carry on size: 22 x 18 x 10 inches
Checked baggage fees vary depending on the route and booking time. However, buying online in advance is always cheaper than paying at the gate.
Check In, Flight Status & Customer Service
Spirit keeps things digital-first. Passengers are encouraged to complete Spirit Airlines check in online through the website/mobile app, saving time and extra airport fees. You can also track your Spirit Airlines flight status live from the website/app for updates on delays, gates, or cancellations.
When it comes to Spirit Airlines customer service, it could be either a hit or a miss. This is because the airline operates on a tight budget with minimal live support and fewer in-person agents. Since most help comes from chatbots, FAQs, or email support, it is better to keep your confirmation codes/receipts with you. It will make things go way smoother and easier for both parties during communications!
What Has Happened to Spirit Airlines Lately?
“What does Spirit Airlines have a bad reputation for?” You must be thinking. After all, we cannot declare that everything on the internet is a lie. Besides, there is no secret that the airline has faced its fair share of criticism.
Frustrated customers have been quite vocal about not having enough legroom on the flight and their flights being delayed. If we take aside the punctuality issue and focus on the comfort concern rationally, we cannot actually hold Spirit accountable. After all, comfort is not really part of the ticket price. It is laughable to expect a premium service after buying a ticket belonging to an ultra low cost flight.
Recently, Spirit has been navigating through financial struggles, legal challenges, and a changing travel market. Having Spirit Airlines bankruptcy rumours on air, the organisation is dealing with increased competition and a failed merger with JetBlue. Spirit Airlines stock, aka SAVE, has seen ups and downs, reflecting investor concerns about profitability. However, Spirit’s management assures passengers that their flights will continue as usual while seeking options to restructure for the better!
Is Spirit Airlines Safe?
Despite social media jokes like “Spirit landed so hard my seatbelt tightened itself”, the airline is safe to travel. It meets all FAA safety regulations and passes the same inspections as major carriers like Delta Airlines, American Airlines, etc. The planes primarily belong to the Airbus A320 family aircraft variant. Even though headlines like “Spirit Airlines emergency landing” appear occasionally, those are often precautionary measures rather than actual safety threats. Every other major airline also deals with similar issues from time to time.
How to Fly Smart With Spirit Airlines
If you are planning to fly with Spirit, aim to travel light, having luggage under their personal item size limit. Make sure to check in online to avoid check-in fees and long queues. Bring your own snacks and non alcoholic drinks on board so you do not have to buy them while flying. After all, onboard purchases are pricier. Since flight delays are inevitable, always track your flight status before heading to the airport to expect lesser inconveniences!
Final Thoughts
If you are all about travelling point A to B on a budget while packing light, you would prefer Spirit. After all, the airline is for people who would rather spend their money on the destination rather than on travelling. All of that lore on the internet does sound dramatic, but Spirit Airlines is not the one who is running low on money. Rather, it is on you, where you will have to spend more, despite knowing you could save up decently!
Why just see one of those bright yellow planes fly across the sky, second-guessing whether they will do or not? Go ahead and experience what Spirit is all about.
As people say, you cannot expect caviar in a ramen cup bought from a convenience store. You cannot expect a “first-class” service when you pay for an economy seat!
