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.