Impact of Spirit Airlines Shutdown on Airfares and Travel Options
Is Spirit Airlines shutdown driving up airfares? Here's what to know
Image: Miami Herald
Airfares are expected to rise significantly following the shutdown of Spirit Airlines on May 2, 2023. With Spirit's exit, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport is experiencing increased pressure as other airlines scramble to fill the gap, leading to a projected 27% increase in round-trip fares compared to last year.
- 01Round-trip U.S. airfare from Memorial Day to Labor Day is 27% higher than in 2022.
- 02Average one-way fare to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) rose to $280 on May 11, up from $257 on April 27.
- 03Spirit Airlines accounted for 28% of FLL's passenger traffic in 2022 and employed over 2,500 people.
- 04JetBlue plans to increase its daily departures at FLL by 75% this summer, adding nearly 130 flights.
- 05Consumer advocate Chris Elliott advises travelers to book directly with airlines and avoid long-term bookings with financially unstable carriers.
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Airfares in the United States are projected to rise sharply following the shutdown of Spirit Airlines on May 2, 2023. According to travel data, round-trip airfare between Memorial Day and Labor Day is expected to be 27% higher than last year. The average one-way fare to Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) increased to $280 on May 11, compared to $257 just weeks earlier. Spirit Airlines, which previously accounted for 28% of passenger traffic at FLL and employed over 2,500 people, has left a significant gap that other airlines are attempting to fill. JetBlue is responding by planning a 75% increase in its daily departures at FLL, adding nearly 130 flights this summer. Other carriers, including Breeze and Allegiant, are also expanding their routes. Consumer advocate Chris Elliott has issued warnings that if fuel prices remain high, more airlines could face financial difficulties. He recommends travelers book flights directly with airlines and avoid long-term reservations with those that may be at risk of failure.
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The shutdown of Spirit Airlines is likely to lead to increased airfares for travelers, especially those flying into and out of Fort Lauderdale.
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