Ultra-low-cost travel across the Americas.
Founded
1983
Headquarters
Miramar, United States
Spirit Airlines is an American ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) headquartered in Miramar, Florida. Founded in 1983 as Charter One Airlines, it rebranded as Spirit Airlines in 1992 and transitioned to a scheduled airline model, eventually adopting the ULCC structure characterized by unbundled fares and optional add-on fees.
The airline operates an extensive network of domestic and international routes, serving destinations across the United States, the Caribbean, Latin America, and Mexico. Spirit is known for its distinctive yellow aircraft livery and its bare-bones 'Bare Fare' pricing philosophy, which keeps base ticket prices low while charging separately for extras such as carry-on bags, seat selection, and snacks.
Spirit filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November 2024 after a series of failed merger attempts, including a blocked acquisition by Frontier Airlines and a rejected bid from JetBlue Airways. The airline continued operations during bankruptcy proceedings while restructuring its finances.
Hubs & network
Spirit Airlines operates primary hubs at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW).
Fleet
Spirit Airlines operates an all-Airbus narrowbody fleet consisting of A319, A320, and A321 family aircraft.
Notable facts
- ›Spirit Airlines adopted the ultra-low-cost carrier model around 2007, unbundling fares to charge separately for ancillary services.
- ›The airline's aircraft feature a distinctive bright yellow livery, earning them the nickname 'Yellow Planes.'
- ›A proposed merger with Frontier Airlines in 2022 was abandoned, followed by a rejected acquisition attempt by JetBlue Airways.
- ›Spirit filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in November 2024.
- ›Spirit's frequent flyer program is called the Free Spirit loyalty program.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
