Overview & Business Model
Founded in 1983 (as Charter One Airlines), operations began in 1990; it adopted the name “Spirit Airlines” in 1992. Headquartered in Dania Beach, Florida.
Model: A pure ultra-low-cost carrier—known for à-la-carte pricing: base fares are low, with fees for extras like baggage, seat selection, and refreshments.
Operations: Serves approximately 88 destinations across the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean, using a single-class, all-Airbus jet fleet
Fleet & Recognitions
Spirit operates an all-Airbus “Fit Fleet”, recognized as one of the world’s youngest and most fuel-efficient fleets: ranked 3rd youngest in North America and 5th globally among airlines with over 100 aircraft by ch-aviation.
Also lauded by WalletHub as the Best Airline Overall for 2025, topping categories like safety and affordability, supported further by FAA’s Diamond Award of Excellence and APEX’s Four Star Low-Cost Carrier rating.