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They flew Spirit for years. Here's what they're doing now.
USA Today • • business
Key Points:
- The shutdown of Spirit Airlines has reduced affordable flight options, contributing to nine consecutive months of rising airfares, with holiday travel costs up 11-13% compared to last year.
- Former Spirit customers report fewer deals and higher base fares on other airlines, which have increased fees for add-ons that Spirit previously charged separately.
- Airlines like JetBlue and Frontier have partially or fully filled the capacity gaps left by Spirit on many routes, but travelers still feel the loss of Spirit’s low-cost model and flexibility.
- Travelers with disabilities note a decline in recognition and accommodation for invisible disabilities since Spirit's closure, with other airlines less familiar with initiatives like the Hidden Disabilities Sunflower.
- To save money, experts recommend using online flight search tools, maintaining flexibility with travel dates and destinations, considering one-way tickets, and booking sooner rather than later.
