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The Kitchen Table

Has anyone flown Spirit Airlines?

14 years ago

My family is planning a cruise, embarking from Ft. Lauderdale on December 26th. I attempted to find air reservations from Chicago for 6 of them, and found what I thought was a great flight, non-stop, on Spirit. Since I hadn't ever heard of them I googled them and they seemed reputable enough, so I booked the flights. They were as expensive, if not more so, than the major carriers especially when you factor in the $38 increase in each ticket price for one bag.

Well, yesterday I read an article about Ryan air and hidden fees so decided to do more research, and I googled problems with Spirit Air. Now I'm freaking out. Seems there are a multitude of "issues" not the least of which is randomly cancelling flights.

So has anyone flown them and what is your experience?

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Comments (4)

azzalea
14 years ago
We flew Spirit a few years back to go to my nephew's wedding in Florida. (Atlantic City to Fort Myers). They were wonderful. Much cheaper than any of the airlines flying out of Philadelphia--the airport we normally use. And since they fly out of the much smaller AC airport, we didn't have to get there so early. Easy, quick check in. If I recall correctly, going down the plane left on time, but unfortunately landed about 2 hours late. Not Spirit's fault. Pres. Bush was landing right about the time we were scheduled to, and all traffic was made to circle until the airport was totally cleared. But we did get to see Airforce One at pretty close range as we taxied to the terminal. Coming home, we left just a little late--boy, I'm guessing here--maybe 15-20 minutes? But the pilot few so fast, we actually landed BEFORE our scheduled arrival. I've never been on such a quick flight to/from Florida.

I was very pleased with them, but that was back when they were just starting out. Don't know how they are now. I do know my sister and BIL use Spirit frequently when they're going back and forth to Florida, so guess they're happy with them.
dances_in_garden
14 years ago
They used to have a regularly scheduled flight from DTW to La Guardia and back, and it was an early morning flight - great for catching meetings and such. But alas, the flight was ALWAYS late.

I have also used them to fly to Florida for several vacations, where delays don't matter as much (and there are no connections to worry about). I liked them fine.
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Ridiculous that they are charging people to take their own clothing with them on a trip. The nerve of us to not want to wear the same outfit everyday!!! What will they charge for next? I read they lowered their fare rates by $40 to make up the difference. They should have kept it the same, and not charge for carry on. Tomato/Tomoto...what's the difference? I don't know anyone who travels without a piece of luggage. Apparently, the 5 major airlines have no intentions of adopting this, BUT, I'm curious to see just how long those intentions stands. Here is a link that might be useful: Spirit carry on charges
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if you can, find out the type of plane they fly (then research safety record)...and yes, it does make a difference the day you leave. i was just checking flights domestic and it was about $50 for an "off" day...but darn it, can't remember which day. time of day can be important too...for instance if you red eye to germany and can sleep on board, you havn't lost much. (me i can't catch a wink, lol) what a neat place to visit...my x was staioned there and was always impressed at how clean everything was...he said even the forests looked "raked", lol
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Comments (11)
I would. But keep in mind the downside of a small fleet is major delays if something is wrong with a plane and they have to bring the other in. Years ago, we flew to Myrtle Beach on Hooters Air. They only flew to MB on Thursdays and Sundays. Something was wrong with the Sunday night plane and the next scheduled flight wasn't until Thursday so no simple rebooking for the next day. We had to wait for another plane to finish its normal route to come to MB to get us. It was a 7 to 8 hour delay. They gave us vouchers for food but said use it now, the 'food court' closes early. It was/is a small airport and I think it closed by about 8 pm. I think there were three food options: Pizza Hut, Subway, and maybe a bar. We didn't leave MB until 1 am. They offered vouchers for a free flight but who wants to take the chance of being stranded again? I think they went out of business shortly after that.
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Comments (154)
The wedding couple's story sounds fishy on every level. I'm so glad it didn't gain much traction. I think they tried to pull a fast one on United, thinking they'd easily have them over a barrel what with the recent viral fiasco. You want to sit in better seats? Pay for them. Someone is sleeping across your assigned seat? Ask for assistance from the Flight Attendants. That's what I do when I see someone passed out across an aisle of seats during the very hectic and totally not peaceful boarding experience!
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jenson13
14 years ago
Flew Spirit a few years ago and was more than pleased. On time, clean, courteous attendants. Go and enjoy. Cruising is my favorite way to travel.
sleeperblues
Original Author
14 years ago
Great, feeling a little better. Thanks for the responses!

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