Flight Details
- Airline: Spirit Airlines
- Class: Economy & Business
- Route: Chicago (ORD) to Miami (MIA) via New York (LGA)
- Aircraft: Airbus A320neo & Airbus A320ceo
Eight long years in the making, and I finally have them in my hand: the “Sacred Papers” a Spirit Airlines boarding pass. Today, I’m wrapping up my USA aviation tour by flying one of the most controversial airlines in the world. Spirit has declared bankruptcy twice within the last year and retired over 100 planes, but does that mean the experience has hit rock bottom?
I took two flights to find out: Chicago to New York (Economy) and New York to Miami (The Big Seat). Here is the breakdown.
The Ground Experience: Fees, Fees, and History
If you don’t prepare, Spirit will make you pay. Literally.
The “Human” Tax: It costs $5 to use a check-in terminal and $20 if you want a human being to check you in.
Luggage Police: They are incredibly picky about weight and size, so pre-book everything.
Highlight: If you fly into New York LaGuardia (LGA), you might land at the Marine Air Terminal. Built in 1939 for the Boeing 314 Clippers, it features a stunning mural and feels like a piece of living aviation history. It’s easily one of the most beautiful terminals in the world.
Economy Class: The “Yellow Rocket”
Stepping on board the A320 Neo, I was pleasantly surprised. Compared to the cold gray of Frontier, Spirit’s yellow branding felt welcoming and cozy.
The Catch: Legroom is practically non-existent. If you are tall, the “Spirit Experience” starts to hurt physically very quickly.
The Service: It’s an ultra-budget model, so everything is buy-on-board. However, the crew was professional, and the flight was perfectly on time.
The “Big Seat” (First Class) Experience
For my second leg from Newark to Miami, I upgraded to the Big Seat for $200.
The Seat: A 2-2 configuration with massive, comfortable leather chairs.
The Perks: You get gate-to-gate internet included in your fare and priority check-in.
Spirit Gold Status: I flew with one of my Patreons, Jason, who is a Spirit Gold member. He revealed some shocking perks: free seat assignments (including exit rows), free bags, and even a direct phone line to a human agent that bypasses all computer menus.
A $700 Manhattan Mistake
While in New York, I took a “door-off” helicopter tour for $700, and it was the biggest disappointment of my trip. Advertised as a “feet-out” experience over Manhattan, you actually just fly over the Hudson at maximum speed without hovering. Save your money and spend it on a few more Big Seats instead!
The Final Verdict: 4/5 “Yellow Rockets”
Spirit is going through a tough time, but the product is surprisingly solid. The planes are clean, the “Big Seat” is an absolute bargain for domestic travel, and the boarding efficiency is better than most “premium” US carriers. I survived Spirit, and I actually enjoyed it. I hope they persevere and stay in the skies to keep flight prices affordable for everyone.
Planning your own US tour?
Click here to find the best deals on Skyscanner!
I stayed at the Marriott Marquis Times Square – Use my link to book your stay!
This is it guys, wherever you’re off to, have a safe trip!
FOLLOW MY JOURNEY
About the Author
Josh Cahill is an award-winning Aviation YouTuber who is reportedly one of the most-watched flight reviewers on the internet. He organised Afghanistan’s first all-female flight together with Kam Air in February 2021 on a flight from Herat to Kabul for which he received the Aviation Achievement Award. His favourite hobby? Flying exotic airlines nobody has ever heard of.
