As Spirit Airlines faces intense competition for airport slots on the mainland, the airline is actively working to broaden its footprint in tropical destinations.
In the previous year, Spirit notably extended its offerings to Puerto Rico, Costa Rica, Mexico, and specific regions in Florida popular among Spring Breakers and snowbirds.
Originally intending to launch new routes to Tulum alongside other airlines when the new international airport terminals opened in the spring, these plans were derailed by a recall issued by Pratt & Whitney for the engines used in the Airbus A321neo aircraft designated for this route.
Puerto Rico continues to be a sought-after destination for both airlines and cruise lines.
Exciting Expansion of Spirit Airlines Routes in May
With the Tulum route postponed indefinitely, Spirit announced its latest routes to another sunny destination from two mainland cities. Starting on May 8 and 9, flights to San Juan in Puerto Rico will depart from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston and Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY).
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These new routes will enhance Spirit’s service to Puerto Rico, connecting 12 mainland U.S. airports with over 20 flights to the U.S. territory in total. Apart from San Juan, Spirit also caters to popular Puerto Rican resort spots like Aguadilla and Ponce.
Bobby Schroeter, Spirit’s Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, expressed excitement about the expansion, emphasizing the airline’s enduring dedication to Puerto Rico. He recognized the backing from the Puerto Rican community and highlighted the commitment of Spirit’s teams in San Juan, Aguadilla, and Ponce, as well as the valued airport collaborators.
Alongside the Puerto Rico routes, Spirit will introduce multiple flights from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). New routes linking to Boston, Pittsburgh, New Orleans, and San Diego are set to commence around the same time in May.
Innovative Strategies Amid Financial Challenges
Among the upcoming routes, Spirit is set to inaugurate a new nonstop flight between New York’s LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) from May 8 onwards, operating on a daily basis.
While some of these flights mark entirely new routes, others are reinstatements of services previously operated by the airline but discontinued due to reduced demand.
In light of financial difficulties, including consecutive unprofitable quarters and legal hurdles impeding JetBlue Airways’ acquisition bid, Spirit Airlines is exploring diverse tactics to attract new clientele and distinguish itself in underserved markets. This endeavor aims to sustain the airline’s operations autonomously without undergoing acquisition, as speculated by financial analysts.