Transition from À-la-Carte Pricing
Spirit Airlines is shifting away from its traditional à-la-carte pricing model by unveiling new ticketing bundles that offer an array of added benefits, including premium seats, carry-on bags, and Wi-Fi.
New Booking Options and Bundle Details
Effective August 16, travelers will have the opportunity to select new booking options during checkout. The base-level fare, known as “Go,” will remain Spirit’s most economical ticketing option, allowing travelers to purchase additional trip extras after booking.
The new bundles, designed to enhance the travel experience, include:
1. Go Savvy: This option includes one carry-on or checked bag and a standard seat selection at the time of booking.
2. Go Comfy: Available for travel starting August 27, this bundle features a guaranteed blocked middle seat, carry-on and checked bags, priority boarding, one snack, and a non-alcoholic beverage.
3. Go Big: Also available from August 27, this premium option includes Spirit’s Big Front seat, free snacks, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, a carry-on and checked bag, priority check-in and boarding, and free Wi-Fi.
Policy Changes and Enhanced Value
In a notable policy change, all four “Go” ticketing options will now include no fees for changes or cancellations.
“We’re unveiling a new era in Spirit’s history and taking low-fare travel to new heights with enhanced options that are unlike anything we’ve ever offered before,” said Ted Christie, Spirit’s president and CEO, in a statement. “We listened to our guests and are excited to deliver what they want: choices for an elevated experience that are affordable and provide unparalleled value.”
Financial Impact and Industry Trends
Spirit anticipates a larger net loss for Q2 2024, attributed to “lower-than-expected” ancillary revenue. This trend reflects a broader industry movement, with other airlines also focusing on upselling premium amenities. For instance, major low-cost competitor Frontier Airlines has introduced an “UpFront Plus” seating option featuring blocked middle seats, while Southwest Airlines recently announced plans to phase out its long-standing open-boarding policy.