Your Guide to Flying Spirit Airlines: Tips, Policies and Booking Information

All About Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines is a major American ultra-low-cost carrier headquartered in Miramar, Florida. Known for its cheap fares and minimalist approach, Spirit has grown rapidly over the past decade to become one of the largest airlines in America. This article provides a comprehensive guide to Spirit Airlines, including its history, route network, policies, and passenger experience.

A Brief History of Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines was founded in 1964 as Clippert Trucking Company, a ground vehicle leasing company that provided trucks for the transportation of automobiles. In 1974, Clippert acquired charter operator Charter One, which operated Boeing 707 and Douglas DC-8 jets. This launched the company into the airline business with charter flights for the travel industry.

In 1990, Charter One began scheduled passenger service between Boston and Atlantic City under the name Spirit Airlines. The initial focus was on service between the Northeast and Florida. Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Spirit greatly expanded its route network and transitioned into a low-cost carrier model with unbundled fares.

Under its low-cost strategy, Spirit has succeeded in keeping fares extremely cheap while growing rapidly. It serves key leisure and tourist destinations across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean.

Spirit Airlines Founder and Leadership

Spirit Airlines was founded by Ned Homfeld in 1964. Homfeld led the organization through its early growth as Clippert Trucking and Charter One.

The current Chairman of the Board is Mac Gardner, who has served on the Board since 2006. The President and CEO is Ted Christie, who took over leadership in 2019 after 9 years as the airline’s CFO. Other key executives include:

• John Bendoraitis, EVP and Chief Operating Officer
• Scott Haralson, Chief Financial Officer
• Thomas Canfield, SVP and General Counsel
• Robert Fornaro, Board Member, and former CEO

Spirit’s management team has extensive experience across the airline industry. The company is recognized for its disciplined low-cost operating model under the leadership of its executives.

Contacting Spirit Airlines

There are several ways to contact Spirit Airlines for customer support, reservations or other inquiries:

Phone Support: Spirit’s customer service phone number is 801-401-2222. Support is available 24/7 for issues with existing bookings, reservations and general questions.

Email: Customers can email spiritcares@spirit.com for customer service issues or questions. Responses are provided within 1 business day.

Social Media: Spirit can be contacted via Facebook Messenger and Twitter direct messaging. Social media teams typically respond within a few hours.

Airport Ticket Counters: Spirit has ticket counters at all airports it serves. You can visit an airport ticket counter for immediate assistance with same-day travel issues.

Online Chat: Spirit offers 24/7 live chat through its website and mobile app. The chat features virtual agents for quick queries as well as options to be connected with a live agent.

Reaching out through social media or online chat are often the quickest ways to get support from Spirit for any booking, reservation or customer service needs.

Spirit Airlines Customer Service

Spirit Airlines provides customer service through phone, email, social media, airport counters and online chat. Some key aspects of Spirit’s customer service include:

• 24/7 phone and online chat support – Agents are available at all hours to assist customers.
• Quick response times – Spirit aims to respond to all inquiries within a few hours on social media and live chat.
• Self-service options – Customers can manage bookings, check-in, and other services through the website and app without contacting an agent.
• Low fares guarantee – Spirit offers a Low fare guarantee if you find a lower Spirit fare on another site within 24 hours of booking.
• Flexibility for travel waivers – Spirit provides options to change or cancel flights with credit for future travel when circumstances require flexibility.
• Passenger notifications – Customers receive text messages and email updates about flight delays, cancellations and other schedule changes.

While Spirit offers limited onboard amenities to keep costs low, the airline provides helpful, timely customer service when needed through virtual and live agents.

Spirit Airlines Route Map

Spirit Airlines has an extensive and growing route network covering over 85 destinations across the United States, the Caribbean, Central America, and South America.

Some of the major cities served by Spirit include:

United States: Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Houston, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Miami, Minneapolis, New Orleans, New York City, Orlando, Philadelphia, Phoenix, Tampa

Caribbean: Aruba, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, Turks & Caicos

Central America: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama

South America: Bogota and Cartagena (Colombia), Lima (Peru)

Within the United States, Spirit focuses heavily on leisure and vacation destinations like Orlando, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and coastal cities in Florida. Internationally, Spirit connects multiple airports across the U.S. with popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, Central America and South America.

Spirit’s route map is optimized for low-cost vacation travel, with point-to-point flights centered around its bases in Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Atlantic City and Detroit. The airline has over 130 aircraft and continues to announce new routes and expand service.

Spirit Airlines Flight Destinations

Some of Spirit’s most popular flight destinations include:

Orlando – As one of Spirit’s main hubs, Orlando has dozens of flights to major cities and vacation spots. Orlando serves as the gateway to theme parks like Disney World.

Fort Lauderdale – Fort Lauderdale is a hub for Caribbean destinations and cruise ports. It also offers connections across Florida.

Atlantic City – Atlantic City has Spirit’s East Coast presence with flights to many big cities and tourist destinations.

Los Angeles – Nonstop flights connect LA with major airports on the West Coast and cities across the country.

Las Vegas – Las Vegas is a huge destination for leisure travelers. Spirit flies to Las Vegas from its hubs and airports across the U.S.

Miami – Spirit serves Miami with routes across the U.S. as well as flights to the Caribbean and Latin America.

Cancun – Cancun is Spirit’s biggest international destination. Dozens of U.S. airports connect directly to this popular Mexican resort area.

Chicago – Spirit flies to both Chicago airports, serving Midwest travelers with nonstop flights to its hubs and leisure destinations.

Wherever you want to go for vacation destinations, Spirit likely has a low-cost flight option from a city near you. The airline specializes in serving top tourist spots.

Spirit Airlines Flights

When searching for and booking Spirit Airlines flights, here are some helpful tips:

• Use Spirit’s website or app to view all available flights, fares and schedules. This is the best place to book directly.
• Know that the initial fare only includes a seat. All other amenities like carry-on bags, seat selection are add-ons.
• Pay for extras like bags, seat selection, faster security when booking to get the lowest rates. These costs increase closer to departure.
• Sign up for Price Drop and Fare Alert emails to be notified of sales and low fares as they are released.
• Be flexible with travel dates and airports to find the cheapest fares. Flying mid-week is often cheaper.
• Purchase a Big Front Seat for extra legroom, or exit rows can be selected free of charge for more space.
• Join the $9 Fare Club for exclusive access to the lowest fares during weekly sales.

Booking directly on Spirit’s website allows you to easily view fares, flight times, add-ons and other details to find the best flight for your trip needs. Flexibility and advance planning will help you score the lowest fares.

Spirit Airlines Flight Status

Spirit offers a few easy ways for customers to check their flight status:

Website: View any flight status on Spirit’s website by entering the flight number or route. You’ll see if a flight is on time, delayed or cancelled.

Mobile app: Download the Spirit app and search for your flight status. You can also opt-in for push notifications about status changes.

Text alerts: Opt-in to receive free text message alerts for your flights. You’ll get notified if there are delays or cancellations.

Airport screens: Once at the airport, check the status screens in the terminal for your Spirit flight information and gate number.

Customer service: Call or message Spirit’s customer service to ask an agent to confirm your flight’s status and details.

Spirit aims to notify all customers directly via text, email or push alerts in case of any flight status changes. But you can proactively check your flight status at any time as well using their website or app.

Spirit Airlines Flight Schedule

Spirit offers flights to domestic and international destinations across the Americas. Here are some key features of Spirit’s flight schedules:

• Flights available 7 days a week to most destinations
• Multiple daily flights to major hubs like Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Atlantic City
• Peak schedules for vacation destinations with dozens of weekly flights
• Reduced schedules to some destinations during off-peak travel seasons
• Typical first flights out by 7-8 AM from hub airports
• Last flights generally return between 8-11 PM depending on the destination
• Most routes served less than daily outside of hubs and peak season
• Limited red-eye flight options available

When booking, pay attention to Spirit’s specific flight days and times for your route. Schedule changes can happen as well, so check your flight status before heading to the airport. Spirit adds seasonal and promotional flights regularly, so new options may open up if you stay flexible.

Spirit Airlines Deals and Promotions

Here are some current deals and promotions available from Spirit Airlines:

• Big Front Sale – Special discounted fares in the Big Front Seats with extra legroom.
• $9 Fare Club – Exclusive access to weekly sales with $9 fares and other deals when you join the club.
• Subscription Passes – Bundles that offer discounted flights and savings on bags and seats.
• Kid Fares – Discounted fares for children under 12 years old.
• Senior Fares – Reduced fares for travelers 65 years or older.
• Military Fares – Special low fares for active and retired military personnel.
• Birthday Sale – Percentage discounts on flights booked around your birthday month.
• Seasonal Sales – Fare discounts on flights for winter, spring, summer and fall travel.
• Last Minute Deals – Deep discounts on some same-day flights with available seats.

Spirit’s website and app highlight all the current promotions and savings opportunities in one place. Limited-time sales and seasonal discounts offer the chance to score major savings on flights.

Spirit Airlines Offers and Discounts

In addition to regular sales and promotions, Spirit provides some great ways to save overall on your flights:

• Price Drop Guarantee – Refunds the difference if fares decrease after booking
• $5 Discount for Booking Online – Saves $5 off the base fare per person
• Big Front Bundle Discount – Save 25% when you bundle a Big Front Seat with bags and seat assignment
• Booking 21+ Days Out – Earlier bookings often have lower fares
• Off-Peak Days and Times – Flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays tend to be cheapest
• Spirit VIBE Credit Card – Earn points towards free flights and discounted companion fares
• Spirit Saver$ Club – Get exclusive discounts and perks when you reach higher membership levels
• Combining Deals – Stack different discounts like seniors, military, off-peak dates for maximum savings

With some flexible travel dates and smart combinations, you can unlock huge savings on Spirit Airlines flights.

Spirit Airlines Online Flight Booking

Booking Spirit flights online is quick and convenient. Here are some tips for the booking process:

• Use Spirit’s website – This ensures you get the full range of fares and flight options.
• Check all airports – Look at fares from all the airports near your origin and destination.
• Know the baggage rules – Spirit charges for all bags. Add them in advance to save money.
• Select seats – Reserve seats together for your group or pay for roomier Big Front Seats.
• Add extras – Skip the counter and pay for priority boarding, faster security, etc.
• Join free programs – Sign up for Price Drop Guarantee, Fare Alerts and $9 Fare Club.
• Use discounts – Input promo codes, senior fares, military deals, etc if eligible.
• Pay online – Secure your booking immediately with online payment by credit/debit card or gift card.
• Check email confirmation – Review all details of your reservation in the email confirmation.

Booking directly on Spirit’s website provides the best experience with optimal fares, flight options and add-ons.

Managing Spirit Airlines Bookings

Once you’ve booked your Spirit Airlines flight, you can easily manage all aspects of your reservation online:

• Change flight – Log in to your booking and modify your flight dates, times or routing for a fee.
• Cancel flight – Cancel upcoming reservations online for a credit to use on future flights.
• Add bags – Purchase carry-on and checked bags up to 4 hours before departure.
• Reserve seats – Select your preferred seats, or upgrade to Big Front Seats.
• Add extras – Opt into options like faster security access, priority boarding, etc.
• Change passenger info – Correct passenger names, contact info or other booking details.
• Track flight status – View real-time updates on your flight, gate, delays or cancellations.
• Mobile app access – Manage your booking via the Spirit mobile app from anywhere.

Having access to your Spirit reservation online provides convenience and flexibility to modify or review details whenever needed leading up to your trip.

Spirit Airlines Online Check-In

Spirit encourages all passengers to complete online check-in between 24 hours and 2 hours prior to departure. Here’s how:

• Visit Spirit’s website – Access online check-in through your reservation.
• Enter details – Input your confirmation number, first and last name, and airport.
• Print or save – View and print your boarding pass or save it to your phone.
• Check-in deadline – Complete online check-in before it closes 2 hours prior to departure.
• Add extras – Purchase bags, seats, faster security access during online check-in.
• Check flight status – Review your flight’s on-time status and gate information.

With online check-in, you can avoid lines at the airport. Arrive ready to simply drop bags, pass through security, and head straight to your gate.

Spirit Airlines Policies

Spirit Airlines embraces a low-cost, a la carte model. Here are some key policies to understand when flying Spirit:

Booking Policy

• No refunds – Tickets are non-refundable, only flight credit is issued for cancellations
• Changes allowed – Date, time and routing can be changed for a fee plus fare difference
• Name changes not allowed – Rebook for a different passenger name

Cancellation Policy

• 24 hours for refund – Full refund if booking is canceled within 24 hours
• Credit for future flights – Cancellations more than 24 hours out receive a reservation credit
• Expired credits – Future travel credits expire if not used within 60 days
• No cash value – Credit has no cash value if unused before expiration

Refund Policy

• Unused credit – Original form of payment is refunded if travel credit is unused after one year
• Involuntary cancellations – Full refunds are issued if Spirit cancels or significantly delays a flight
• Extenuating circumstances – Refund determinations made on a case-by-case basis

Review all policies carefully before booking to understand change, cancellation and refund rules and fees.

Spirit Airlines Baggage Policies

Spirit has some unique baggage policies:

• All bags have fees – You must pay carry-on and checked bag fees at booking or airport
• No free carry-ons – Personal items under 16 x 14 x 12 inches are allowed for free
• Carry-on costs – Carry-on bags are $35-$65 online depending on member status
• Check bag costs – First checked bag is $30-$75 online based on time of booking
• Size limits – Carry-ons up to 22 x 18 x 10 inches, checked bags up to 62 linear inches
• Overweight fees – Extra fees apply for bags over 40 pounds
• Sports equipment – Special rules and fees for golf clubs, surfboards, bikes, etc.
• Pets – Dogs and cats allowed in cabin or cargo for $110-150 each way

Know Spirit’s baggage dimensions, weight limits and fees to avoid surprises. Pack light or pay for bags in advance to save money.

Spirit Airlines Baggage Allowance

Here are the baggage allowances in detail when flying with Spirit:

Carry-On Bags

• 1 personal item – Free for a small purse, laptop bag

• 1 carry-on bag – Up to 22 x 18 x 10 inches. Fees apply.

Checked Bags

• 1st checked bag – Up to 62 linear inches. Fees from $30-$75 apply.
• 2nd checked bag – Extra bag allowed for fees from $40-$100
• Overweight bags – Bags 41-50 pounds are $30-$75, 51-70 pounds are $75-$150
• Oversized bags – Between 62-80 linear inches costs $75-$150
• Special items – Golf clubs, surfboards and bikes allowed for $75+

Other Allowances

• Strollers & car seats – Free for one per child if used by child on trip
• Medical equipment – Necessary medical items free but may require notice
• Military bags – Active military are exempt from baggage fees

Make sure your bags comply with Spirit’s size and weight limits to avoid additional airport fees. Consider packing less or paying upfront online for lowest rates.

Spirit Airlines Pet Policy

Spirit allows domestic pets in the cabin or as checked baggage for fees each way:

Cabin Pets

• 1 pet per passenger – Only cats or dogs allowed in cabin
• Fee is $110 – Each way for carry-on pet
• Pet carrier size – Must fit under seat and be 18x14x9 inches
• Weight limit – Pets must be under 40 pounds
• Advance notice required – Alert Spirit at least 48 hours before flight

Checked Pets

• Fee is $150 – Each way for checked pets
• Crate requirements – Hard-sided crate up to 40 pounds that can be gently handled
• Limit 2 pets – Maximum of 2 pets per passenger
• Larger pets – Pets heavier than 40 pounds not accepted as checked baggage

Proper crates, weight limits, and advance notice are required for pets. No other animal types are allowed on Spirit Airlines.

Spirit Airlines Checked Bag Fees

Spirit charges fees for carry-on and checked bags based on time of booking:

Carry-On Bag Fees

• During booking: $35-40
• Online check-in: $45-$50
• At airport: $65

First Checked Bag Fees

• During booking: $30-$35
• Online check-in: $40-$45
• At airport: $55-$75

Second Checked Bag Fees

• During booking: $40-$45
• Online check-in: $50-$55
• At airport: $70-$100

These are the standard rates but discounts for Spirit members can apply. Bags over size or weight limits incur oversized/overweight bag fees.

Paying for 1-2 checked bags and carry-ons during initial booking ensures the lowest rates. Prices increase significantly if waiting to pay at the airport.

Spirit Airlines In-Flight Facilities

As a low-cost airline, Spirit offers basic in-flight amenities and facilities:

Food and drinks – A la carte snack and beverage purchases available by contactless scan of QR codes

Alcohol – Beer, wine, and cocktails for purchase on most flights

WiFi – Optional high-speed satellite-based internet access starting at $5

Power outlets – All planes have 120v power outlets at every seat

Entertainment – No seatback screens. Bring your own devices with downloaded movies/shows.

Seat recline – Standard recline available, Big Front Seats have only minor recline

Lavatories – Standard small lavatories with sinks and mirrors

Spirit provides an efficient experience with just the essential amenities needed for shorter flights. You can purchase food, drinks and entertainment as desired. Focus is on providing ultra-low base fares for passengers.

Spirit Airlines Passenger Experience

Flying Spirit Airlines provides a more basic but streamlined experience:

Boarding – Unassigned seats. Pay extra for earlier boarding zones.

Legroom – Standard 30 inches pitch on Economy seats

Seat comfort – Slimline seats without much padding or contours

Cleanliness – High-touch areas and lavatories cleaned multiple times per flight

Service – Limited food/beverage service from flight attendants

Atmosphere – High-density cabin configured for maximum efficiency

Crew – Friendly staff focused on safety and essentials

Delays – Tend to have fewer delays than other discount airlines

While Spirit lacks some comforts and amenities, its minimalist model allows for lower operational costs that are passed on through ultra-cheap fares. Flights provide safe, reliable transportation between destinations.

How to Check In Online with Spirit Airlines

Checking in online with Spirit Airlines is easy:

1. Visit Spirit’s website or open the mobile app 24 hours before departure
2. Enter your confirmation code and passenger details
3. Select your seat assignments or upgrade options
4. Add any bags, faster security access or other services
5. Accept terms and print or download mobile boarding pass
6. Receive boarding group number and check flight status
7. Head to airport and proceed directly to security with your boarding pass

Online check-in can be completed anytime from 24 hours up until 2 hours before scheduled departure. Completing all steps ensures you have your boarding pass on your phone or printed out ready to go.

How to Book Flights with Spirit Airlines

Follow these steps for booking flights on Spirit’s website:

1. Enter your route to view available nonstop or connecting flight options.
2. Select departure and return dates, and number of passengers.
3. Choose your preferred flights after reviewing times, prices and layover airports.
4. Select seats, add bags, opt into upgrades like Big Front Seats.
5. Provide passenger details and contact information for all travelers.
6. Enter any valid promo codes, discounts or Spirit rewards.
7. Make secure payment online with a credit/debit card.
8. Check email for reservation confirmation and manage booking before departure.

Booking directly on Spirit’s website provides the full range of fares and flight choices. Completing booking online locks in the lowest fares.

Why Choose Spirit Airlines?

There are a few key reasons to consider flying with Spirit Airlines for your next trip:

Ultra-low-cost – Spirit offers some of the lowest base fares of any airline.

A la carte pricing – Pay only for what you want like bags, seat selection, onboard food/drinks.

Deals and sales – Regular promotions and discounts make flights very cheap.

Nonstop flights – Robust route network provides convenient nonstop options.

On-time reputation – Spirit is the most punctual U.S. airline with fewer delays.

Modern fleet – Fuel-efficient planes for cost savings.

Fast trip recovery – Industry-leading program to get you on the next flight after cancelations.

Helpful staff – Friendly flight attendants provide an efficient, hassle-free trip.

Vacation destinations – Great airline for cheap leisure travel to tourist spots.

For bargain airfares to sought-after locales across the Americas, Spirit Airlines is a top choice with its low-cost approach and vibrant sales culture.

Conclusion

Spirit Airlines provides a no-frills but very affordable flying experience. While seats are compact and amenities are limited, the base fares are extremely cheap. This makes Spirit an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to pay only for what they need. With regular promotions and a large route network, Spirit delivers value across the Americas.

The key is understanding Spirit’s optional fees for bags, seat assignments, onboard food and drinks. Being an informed passenger will result in the best deals. While the flying experience is streamlined, Spirit gets passengers safely and punctually to destinations at an exceptional value.