Spirit Airlines Launches Premium Fare Bundles Amid Financial Struggles, Boosts Stock by 7%
July 30, 2024
Spirit Airlines, based in Florida, is set to introduce bundled packages for its highest-priced tickets as part of a strategy to enhance revenue amid ongoing financial challenges.
This new approach marks a significant departure from Spirit's traditional fee-heavy budget model, as the airline aims to provide popular perks to its customers.
The new fare classes will include options such as 'Go Big,' which offers first-class seating and amenities, 'Go Comfy' with a blocked middle seat and free baggage, 'Go Savvy' with seat selection and a bag, and the basic 'Go' class.
These changes will take effect starting August 27, with ticket bundles available for purchase from August 16.
The introduction of premium travel options is a response to increasing demand for higher-margin revenue, a move that has already boosted Spirit's stock by 7%.
This initiative reflects the broader challenges faced by the airline industry in generating profits from low-cost tickets, a model that Spirit pioneered.
Currently, Spirit is grappling with financial instability, including furloughing pilots and delaying aircraft deliveries, raising concerns about potential bankruptcy.
Following the cancellation of its merger with JetBlue earlier this year, Spirit has seen its shares plummet over 80%, exacerbating its financial woes.
This announcement comes shortly after Southwest Airlines decided to eliminate open seating in favor of assigned seats, indicating a trend among airlines to adapt to market pressures.
Other airlines, including Alaska Airlines, are also adjusting their offerings, with Southwest planning to enhance its premium seating options.
CEO Ted Christie emphasized that these changes signify a new era for Spirit, aiming to compete for passengers seeking a premium experience that the airline previously overlooked.
Summary based on 7 sources
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Sources

Insider • Jul 30, 2024
Spirit Airlines is making big changes to how it sells tickets
Quartz • Jul 30, 2024
Spirit Airlines has decided it would rather be normal than bankrupt