Spirit Airlines is launching tickets with perks like free snacks and waived checked baggage fees.
July 30, 2024 1:15 PM ET
• 2 min read
Breaking away from its history as a price-focused budget airline, Spirit Airlines will begin selling tickets that bundle some of its most popular perks into one package.
The Florida-based airline announced Tuesday that it will offer several new ticket types, led by a “Go Big” package that includes priority check-in, larger seats, snacks and drinks, checked and carry-on bags and free Wi-Fi.
CEO Ted Christie said the changes would “take low-cost travel to new heights,” but they also point to serious problems with Spirit’s long-standing business model.
The airline with its bright yellow planes hasn’t made a full-year profit since 2019 and has lost nearly $2.4 billion since then, leading industry analysts to consider whether Spirit Airlines could file for bankruptcy in the future.
Full-service airlines Delta Air Lines and United Airlines make up the lion’s share of U.S. airline profits, but they also thrive by focusing on premium passengers while also selling bare-bones “basic economy” fares that compete with Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air to target the most cost-conscious travelers.
“We listened to our guests and are excited to offer them what they want – an elevated experience option that offers unmatched value at an affordable price,” Christie said.
