About Our History

Getting Started:

Spirit Airlines has a rich history that dates back to 1964 when it was established as the Clippert Trucking Company in Michigan. It wasn't until 1980 that the company ventured into air travel, initially focusing on air charter operations under the name Charter One. The airline began its scheduled service from Boston and Providence, Rhode Island, to Atlantic City during this period.

One significant milestone in Spirit Airlines' history occurred on May 29, 1992, when Charter One introduced jet aircraft into its fleet and rebranded itself as Spirit Airlines. Initially headquartered in Eastpointe, Michigan (formerly East Detroit) in Metro Detroit, the airline later moved its headquarters to its current location in Miramar, Florida, in 1999.

Robust Growth Calls for Strong Representation:

In the year 2000, a significant decision was made by 352 Spirit Airlines Flight Attendants to come together and establish a Union. The Association of Flight Attendants was chosen to be the official representative of these dedicated individuals. This marked the beginning of a new era in the relationship between the Flight Attendants and the company.

After several years of negotiations and discussions, our inaugural Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) was finally signed between Spirit Airlines and AFA-CWA. This landmark agreement officially came into effect on August 7, 2007, setting the stage for a more structured and equitable working relationship between the Flight Attendants and the airline.

The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA-CWA) is deeply committed to proudly representing Spirit Airlines' First Responders - the Flight Attendants. As your Spirit AFA-CWA Union leadership, we stand as your staunch advocates, unwavering in our dedication to upholding the integrity of our Collective Bargaining Agreement and ensuring the fair treatment of all Flight Attendants under our representation.

Transition to Low-Cost:

In 2007, Spirit Airlines embarked on a strategic shift towards a Low-Cost business model. This move involved unbundling amenities from the main ticket price, which is commonly referred to as a "no-frills" approach. Today, Spirit Airlines is known for operating over 700 daily flights to more than 75 destinations across the USA, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean.

To support its operations, the airline boasts a modern, all-Airbus fleet comprising over 190 single-aisle aircraft from the A320 family. This growing fleet underscores Spirit Airlines' commitment to providing efficient and reliable service to its passengers while staying true to its low-cost business model.

COVID-19 Wreaks Havoc on Aviation:

The COVID-19 pandemic had a profound impact on Spirit Airlines, as it did across the aviation industry. In the early months of 2020, shortly after the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic, the airline experienced a drastic decline in passenger demand, leading to unprecedented flight cancellations and revenue losses. Spirit quickly adapted by implementing rigorous health and safety protocols, such as enhanced cleaning measures and mask requirements, to reassure travelers and restore confidence in air travel. Despite these efforts, the airline faced significant financial challenges, requiring cost-cutting measures, and government assistance to navigate the crisis. As travel began to rebound, Spirit attempted to leverage the opportunity to reevaluate its business model, ultimately trying to position itself for recovery and growth in a post-pandemic world, which has proven difficult, not just for Spirit but for all low-cost carriers alike.

Post-COVID Return to Profitability:

In July 2024, Spirit Airlines embarked on a transformative journey, unveiling a series of changes that redefined the airline experience for its passengers. This strategic shift included the introduction of bundled fares, priority check-in, and an enhanced boarding process, marking a significant evolution in the airline's approach to customer service.

With the rollout of the new fare bundles, Spirit Airlines now offers travelers four distinct options tailored to meet a variety of needs and preferences. The first, Go, represents the airline’s most basic fare, providing passengers with a personal item and the flexibility of free ticket changes, though it lacks additional perks.

Next in line, Go Savvy offers a modest upgrade, allowing standard seat selection and the choice of either a carry-on or a checked bag.

For those seeking a more comfortable journey, Go Comfy stands as a premium option, featuring a blocked middle seat, Group 2 boarding, both a carry-on and a checked bag, along with complimentary snacks and drinks.

Finally, Go Big caters to the ultimate traveler, providing access to a Big Front Seat, Group 1 boarding, complimentary beverages (including alcoholic options), premium snacks, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

As ultra-low-cost carriers (ULCCs) evolve their business strategies and these new fare bundles become available for purchase, many are finding that this new value proposition resonates well with travelers. With the launch of these fare bundles now in effect, Spirit Airlines invites both loyal customers and those who may have previously overlooked the airline to reconsider their travel options. This strategic shift marks a pivotal moment in the airline's history, reflecting its commitment to providing enhanced value and convenience to passengers.

Spirit Go Forward (11/2024-Present)

On November 18, 2024, Spirit Airlines announced it had entered into a restructuring support agreement (RSA) as part of a prearranged Chapter 11 bankruptcy process in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. This plan, supported by a majority of Spirit’s loyalty and convertible bondholders, is aimed at addressing the company’s financial challenges and restructuring its debt that face the airline industry as a whole.

The RSA includes a $350 million equity investment from bondholders, along with a planned transaction to convert $795 million in debt into equity. Spirit has also secured $300 million in debtor-in-possession (DIP) financing to ensure operations continue during this restructuring period. According to Spirit, the company expects to maintain normal operations, including honoring all guest bookings, loyalty points, and team member wages and benefits.