Spirit Airlines is once again shaking up its network, this time focusing on its Houston operating base. The airline is adding new flights and boosting existing service on popular routes, aiming to attract more travelers and increase revenue.
Starting August 14, Spirit will introduce twice-daily service between Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW). This 224-mile route is already well-served by American Airlines and United Airlines, with an average ticket price of $155. Frontier Airlines recently entered this market, so Spirit will face competition from another ultra-low-cost carrier.
In addition to the Houston-to-Dallas route, Spirit is expanding its portfolio from IAH with a third daily service to Orlando and a fourth daily flight to Las Vegas. However, the airline will end all international flying from Houston on August 13, citing reduced demand in Latin American markets. The international service will operate seasonally, with plans to resume later this year.
Spirit is also adding two new domestic routes, connecting Fort Lauderdale with Rochester, New York, and Los Angeles with Reno. While the Fort Lauderdale route will give Spirit a monopoly, the Los Angeles route will face fierce competition from Alaska Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines.
Overall, Spirit’s network changes in Houston reflect a strategic shift towards more connecting flights and less reliance on Florida. With these updates, the airline aims to attract more passengers, increase revenue, and navigate the competitive airline industry landscape.