spirit airlines check in seat assignment

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The Guide to Spirit Airlines Seat Selection

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Spirit Airlines is known for its low fares and plentiful flights to popular vacation destinations. But because of the airline’s pricing model , choosing your seat and most other services beyond the ticket itself will cost you extra when flying Spirit.

Before you book your ticket, here’s what to know about seat selection on Spirit Airlines, including the types of seats available and how much they might cost.

Spirit Airlines seat assignment

As an ultra low-cost carrier, the rule of thumb on Spirit is that seat selection isn't free, and customers can expect to pay for seats on each leg of their trip.

The only travelers who don’t have to pay a seat selection fee are Free Spirit elite status members, who get free seat selection as one of the program’s perks.

When booking, you can pay for seat selection and baggage as part of a bundle. Alternatively, you can choose your seats individually as a trip add-on during booking or anytime after — even at check-in.

Do I have to select a seat on Spirit Airlines?

Travelers hoping to fly as cheaply as possible can skip paying for seat selection altogether. In that case, the airline will randomly assign them a seat at check-in.

Yes, that means you could end up sitting apart from your travel companions: The airline states it can’t guarantee travelers will be assigned seats next to each other, even if they booked the tickets on one reservation.

However, the airline says gate agents and flight attendants will try to provide adjacent seats “when possible” for travelers ages 13 or younger who are traveling with an adult.

Notably, this assurance is not enough to meet the U.S. Department of Transportation’s new recommendations that airlines guarantee adjacent family seating for no additional cost.

» Learn more: When to fly on low-cost carriers vs. full-service airlines

Spirit Airlines seat types

Unlike other airlines that have a wide range of seat types and classes of service, it’s pretty straightforward on Spirit — there are just three options to choose from.

Standard seats

Spirit’s standard seats represent the vast majority of seats on the aircraft. You can buy a standard seat a la carte or purchase it as part of a bundle — which we’ll discuss in a moment.

While you may want to equate a standard seat to economy class on another airline, don’t expect much besides a place to sit. As a budget airline, you’ll generally have to pay for anything else you want, from soda and snacks to carry-on bags and other services.

Premium seats

On Spirit, premium seats are exit row seats that come with a bit of extra legroom but also require passengers to be able and willing to assist in an emergency. This means travelers under the age of 15 can’t choose these seats, per federal guidelines.

Big Front Seats

While Spirit doesn’t have a true first class, it does offer wider seats with more legroom at the front of the aircraft. The airline calls the seats in this section the Big Front Seats .

With eight or ten such seats available on each flight — depending on the aircraft — Big Front Seat passengers get up to 32% more legroom when compared to standard seats. There’s also no middle seat, as all Big Front Seats are either window or aisle seats.

» Learn more: Your guide to Spirit Airlines’ award chart

Spirit Airlines seating chart

On the web, there are a few ways to see the Spirit seating chart. You can take a sneak peek before choosing a flight by selecting “seat map” on an itinerary you’re considering.

Once you do that, you can view seat types and availability on the plane, as shown in this example flight from Newark, New Jersey to Orlando, Florida.

When it comes time to select a seat while booking, the seat map will show the price of each seat. When you select a seat, a pop-up box will display the price, along with an image and additional information, like whether it’s an aisle or window seat.

If you’re selecting seats as part of a bundle, you’ll choose your seats using the same type of map, but seats included in the bundle will be listed at $0.

How to pick seats on Spirit Airlines

When it comes to selecting a seat on Spirit, you have three main options:

Pay to select seats a la carte while booking, or anytime up until check-in.

Pay for a bundle that includes seat selection, baggage and other benefits such as priority boarding.

Skip seat selection and pay nothing. This option will result in the airline randomly assigning you a seat at check-in.

» Learn more: Sweet spots for redeeming Spirit Airlines points

Spirit Airlines seat selection fees

Seat assignment prices can vary dramatically based on the flight and the seat you choose. Spirit advertises the price for a standard seat as starting at $5 per flight and climbing as high as $200 under the most expensive circumstances.

The price of a Big Front Seat ranges from $12 to $750 per route, and will be pricier than standard seats for the extra space. You can also save money by paying to upgrade to a Big Front Seat on the day of your flight, but there’s always a chance there won’t be any available.

In NerdWallet’s analysis of airline seat fees , Spirit Airlines is the second most expensive among major U.S. airlines, at an average of $20 per seat per flight. Spirit trails only its budget airline counterpart, Frontier, in that ranking.

» Learn more: Frontier vs. Spirit: The battle of the budget airlines

With such a wide range of prices, let’s see what these fees look like in practice. We priced out a summer weekend trip from Baltimore/Washington International Airport in Maryland to the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Florida, with a base fare coming in at $229 round-trip. On the leg to Florida, seat selection fees start at $17 for a standard seat toward the back of the plane.

If we want to sit closer to the front of the plane, standard seats go for $18 or $27. Exit row seats are $33, while the larger, extra-legroom Big Front Seat costs $110.

For the return trip, the cheapest seats start at $20.

If we aren't paying for extra baggage, and if we select the least expensive seat each way, our $228 ticket ultimately comes out to $265.

Spirit Airlines fee bundles

Instead of paying for seats separately, you can pay for one of Spirit’s bundles. These include a checked and/or full-size carry-on bag, a standard seat and other services for one price.

Like the seats themselves, the costs of the bundles vary by flight. And keep in mind you’ll need to pay for the bundle for both the outbound and return flight.

Before choosing a bundle, you’ll want to decide what services you need and then price out the best option.

Here’s what you get with Spirit’s two main bundles:

For our hypothetical trip from Baltimore to Fort Lauderdale with a $229 base fare, the Just for You bundle costs $69 each way. The Bundle It Combo tacks on $130 each way.

So if we decide to add on the Bundle It Combo, we would pay $489 — which might not be such a good deal.

If we only want one part of a bundle’s offerings — for example, a carry-on bag — and don’t need seat selection or priority boarding, it might make sense to skip the bundle and pay for the carry-on bag separately.

» Learn more: How Spirit Boarding Zones and Shortcuts Work

Spirit Saver$ Club

Members of Spirit’s subscription-based Saver$ Club receive discounts on seat selection for themselves and up to eight travel companions, along with other benefits like expedited security access, early boarding and ticket flexibility.

The program costs $69 for a 12-month membership, with 18-month and two-year memberships also available.

Spirit Airlines seat selection for elite members

One of the most useful perks of Spirit Airlines elite status is the ability to select a seat for free. Spirit’s seat selection benefits for elite status members are as follows:

Free Spirit Silver members get complimentary seat selection at check-in and may be able to move to an exit row seat prior to departure at no cost.

Free Spirit Gold members get complimentary seat selection when booking, including exit rows. 

If you’re a frequent Spirit flyer, you can work toward Free Spirit elite status through flying and everyday spending using the Free Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard® . Cardholders earn 1 Status Qualifying Point (SQP) per $10 spent on eligible purchases.

For context, it takes 2,000 SQP to reach Free Spirit Silver and earn complimentary seat selection at check-in. Gold status is earned once you reach 5,000 SQPs.

Spirit Airlines seat selection recapped

When flying a budget airline like Spirit Airlines, you should go in expecting that your ticket only gets you a spot on the plane and a personal item that fits under the seat. Anything else, including choosing your seat, will cost extra.

When booking a Spirit Airlines flight, a little research and strategy can help you save money . Figure out your greatest areas of need— whether it’s a full-sized bag, shortcut boarding or selecting a seat — and then compare the price of bundling your add-on services or paying for them individually.

And, if you’re planning to fly Spirit regularly, supplementing your flying with an airline-branded credit card is a great way to help you reach elite status and earn free seat selection.

(Top photo courtesy of Spirit Airlines)

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$50 annual hotel credit when booked through Chase.

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$150 in partner benefits.

And much more...

Spirit Airlines do's and don'ts: Don't freak out about the seats, do sign up for deals

With a fraction of the planes and daily flights, Spirit Airlines isn't as well known as its major competitors save for the occasional eye-popping fare sale or joke on late-night TV.

But the Florida-based budget airline is expanding rapidly, with new service in Nashville , Tenn.; Charlotte, North Carolina; and California this year, meaning an increasing number of travelers are going to see Spirit in airfare searches and at their airport gates.

USA TODAY took seven Spirit flights in five days to check out the expanding discount airline with the hard-to-miss yellow and black planes.

Here are 13 do's and don'ts:

1. Do the math when shopping for tickets . That $65 one-way fare from Detroit to Las Vegas will quickly balloon if you’re bringing anything bigger than a purse or backpack   (Spirit charges for carry-on and checked bags ) and want an advance seat assignment. Conversely, it probably can’t be beat if you travel light and don’t care where you sit.

2.  Don’t assume a similarly priced ticket on another airline will get you more . American, United and Delta created basic economy fares to match Spirit’s bargain fares, and those tickets come with their own restrictions. American and Delta do allow a free standard carry-on bag unlike Spirit, but United, for example, does not. And all three major airlines charge basic economy passengers for advance seat assignments . 

3.  Do sign up for Spirit emails and , if you plan to fly Spirit a lot, the $9 Fare Club ($60 a year). Spirit sends almost daily emails with promo codes for flight discounts. One 50% off deal saved me $35 on a cheap flight from Fort Lauderdale. Note that they are limited-time offers, sometimes requiring purchase that day, and the discount doesn’t shave 50% off the posted fare because Spirit has several fees – including an arcane and pricey "passenger usage charge" – baked into the fare that is displayed. But it's still savings you wouldn't otherwise get. The $9 Fare Club, which is $60 the first year and $70 in succeeding years, provides discounts on airfare and big discounts on bag fees. I recouped the cost with my first booking.

7 Spirit Airlines flights in 5 days: The good, the (not too) bad and the annoying

4. Don't pay for a seat assignment if you aren't picky about your seat. A Spirit ticket does not include an advance seat assignment. A seat is assigned last minute at online check-in or at the airport. The pickings may be slim – hello, middle seat – or you could get lucky and be randomly assigned an aisle or window seat or, even better, an exit row seat or empty Big Front Seat. Families are often separated. Spirit tries to sell you a seat several times during and after booking. The price to reserve an aisle seat on two of my flights: $12 a piece. If you're flying on an Airbus A321, check out seats 10B and 10C. They're the favorite of Spirit Vice President Greg Christopher because there are only two seats in the row, which is in front of an exit row seat with a rear-facing seat for the flight attendant.

5. Do make sure the Thrills Combo, a package of "perks'' including a carry-on bag, checked bag, seat assignment and waiver of the change fee, is necessary before clicking buy . Spirit touts the savings during every booking, but it's only a deal if you were planning to buy everything that is included in the lineup.

6. Don't book a last-minute ticket thinking you can get your money back within 24 hours if your plans change . Like other airlines, Spirit has a 24-hour risk-free cancellation period . Unlike other airlines, however, the policy doesn't apply to tickets booked fewer than seven days before travel, i.e., last-minute trips. Passengers in the latter category have to pay Spirit's $90 change fee (which is less than other airlines' change fees) plus any fare difference.

7. Don't wait to pay for your bags at the airport.  Spirit's bag fees are priciest at the airport. Pay for them when you book your ticket.

8. Don't wait until you get to the airport to print your boarding pass. It'll cost you $10 per person. You can print one out at home, use a mobile boarding pass from Spirit's app or print one for free at the airport kiosk.

9.  Don’t freak out about the seats. Yes, they’re thin, there’s not much cushioning and they don’t recline. But they are more than manageable for all but the tallest or largest passengers or those with a big carry-on stuffed underneath the seat.

10.  Do splurge on the Big Front Seats if it’s in the budget . The seats at the front of the plane are large, plush and there’s no middle seat. You’ll feel like you’re in first class, minus the free food and drink and the curtain separating you from the passengers in coach. Many passengers mistakenly call it first class when they file by. Prices vary by route. I paid $60 on one flight and $45 on another.

11. Don’t bother pulling out your laptop to work or watch a movie.  Spirit's tray tables are tiny. Most passengers use their smartphones or tablets for entertainment.

12. Do bring your own food and drinks. Spirit charges for in-flight drinks, including coffee ($2), bottled water ($3) and soda ($3). It sells snacks, too, like many airlines, but some of the choices (Cup of Noodles, anyone?) might leave you wishing you'd picked up something at one of those trendy airport restaurants or at least at an airport sundries shop.

13. Do expect a lot of infrequent flyers on board . There’s a reason the flight attendants make repeated announcements about using headphones when playing music or watching videos; remind travelers to use the restroom before the plane starts it descent and the seat belt sign goes on; and to use the restroom, not the seats, to change a diaper.

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There are 4 of us travelling on Saturday and we need to sit together.

Do I really need to pay extra to select 4 seats together considering most of the seats are not taken? Won't they sit us together anyway?

'There are 4 of us travelling on Saturday and we need to sit together.' With your word 'need' then I'd say yes, pay for seat assignments.

What is the routing you've booked for this Saturday?

One more think: looks like I can buy seats after a check in.

In which case I think it would make sense to check in early and see what seats has been assigned and if they are not together, buy only those seats that necessary. Since we have child , at least two seats will be together. So the worst case , I will have to buy 2 seats. But if I do it before a check in - I will have to buy 4 seats.

Am I missing something.

At a minimum you should book two seats now for an adult and child but if you want to all sit together just bite the bullet and buy four seats now.

Or is your wife giving you a hard time on this too?

If you want to sit together...pay.

If only 2 people need to sit together...pay.

If you roll the dice and lose, DON'T ask others who may have paid to change their seats so that you can sit together.

Just because you automatically get assigned two seats together for one adult and the child, doesn't mean there will be two more seats nearby that you can buy later. If you want to sit together, buy the seat reservations.

Out of interest how much $ is this debate about

If you need to sit together, then pay for seats to sit together.

What is the reason stopping you from doing this ?

**What is the reason stopping you from doing this ?**

From the original post....

"Do I really need to pay extra**

Looked at my reservation before the check in 24 hour period started and saw the seats have been already assigned. All 4 together.

Thanks everyone.

You got lucky, but what would you have done if you hadn’t. Keep in mind that people will not move for you because you didn’t pay for seats. They did and so they’re seated where they want to be.

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How to upgrade your seat on Spirit Airlines

Unlike most other discount carriers, Spirit Airlines has a much more comfortable seat at the front of its planes. And Spirit's marketing of this seat may be the most honest in the travel industry. Dubbed the " Big Front Seat ," you get what you'd expect: a big seat in the front of the plane. And it's pretty comfy.

You won't get free drinks or free checked bags with the Big Front Seat. And there aren't any free Spirit upgrades to the Big Front Seat, even for elite members. But, you can buy your way to a nicer seat.

An upgrade to a Big Front Seat isn't as cheap as it used to be, but you may still find the cost reasonable. Even if you're traveling on a small budget and want to buy a Spirit upgrade, you may find an exit-row seat that's in your price range. Here's what you need to know to give yourself the best chance at an affordable upgrade to more legroom when flying Spirit Airlines.

Sign up for our daily newsletter for more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox.

Buy a Spirit upgrade to the Big Front Seat

There are two ways to get a Spirit upgrade to the Big Front Seat. You can purchase a Big Front Seat assignment outright, either during the booking process or after you complete your booking. You can also use Spirit's bidding system to bid on a Big Front Seat, which I'll discuss in a subsequent section.

Discount carrier Spirit Airlines charges a fee for just about everything, including seat assignments. You'll see a seat map with prices attached to each empty seat during the booking process.

Once you select a seat and pay for it, you're all set. Spirit advertises a price range of $12 to $250 to select a Big Front Seat. In practice, we typically see a range between $50 and $150, with many popular routes charging $100 or more per flight segment for the Big Front Seat.

As a general rule with Spirit, seat assignment fees are nonrefundable. So, make sure you're very likely to take your trip before committing to an upgrade.

The Free Spirit® Travel More World Elite Mastercard® doesn't offer any discounts or benefits regarding Spirit upgrades. But you can still utilize many other credit card travel credits to cover seat selection fees. For example, the Chase Sapphire Reserve offers a $300 annual travel credit and The Platinum Card® from American Express offers an airline fee credit (although you'd need to enroll and select Spirit as your airline of choice before making your purchase).

The information for the Free Spirit Travel More Mastercard has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

Related: Spirit baggage fees and how to avoid paying them

Buy a Spirit upgrade to the exit row

There are several ways to pay for an upgrade to the exit row. The first, similar to the Big Front Seat, is to pay for an exit-row seat during seat selection. Spirit lists the price range for paid seat assignments from $1 to $50 (excluding the Big Front Seat). Typically, you'll pay $25 to $35 to select an exit-row seat.

The other way to upgrade to an exit-row seat is to purchase one of the bundles Spirit offers during the booking process. Generally speaking, you'll be offered two bundles during the booking process. Both the more affordable "Just For You" bundle and the pricier "Bundle It" bundle include the ability to pick any seat on the plane (excluding a Big Front Seat).

For folks who plan to bring a carry-on or checked bag, bundle pricing that includes an exit-row seat can provide good value.

Related: How to change or cancel a Spirit Airlines flight

Bid on an upgrade to a Big Front Seat or exit-row seat

Until recently, the only way you could grab a Big Front Seat or exit-row seat on Spirit was to purchase it. However, Spirit has rolled out a bidding system that may allow you to snag a Spirit upgrade for slightly less cash. TPG's Zach Griff tried bidding on a Big Front Seat and saved 40% on the advertised price.

After you book your flight, Spirit has a webpage where you can bid for an upgrade to the exit row or a Big Front Seat. You won't hear whether your bid was successful until within 48 hours of departure (it may be even closer to departure).

Interestingly, the terms and conditions of the Spirit bidding system also mention something called "Instant Level Up." Instant Level Up is an option where Spirit may offer you the opportunity to purchase an upgraded seat immediately during the bidding process. Spirit's website notes that the Instant Level Up option is only available on select routes.

Related: The 3 biggest things I'll miss most when Spirit is acquired

Get a free Spirit upgrade to exit-row seating with elite status

If you fly Spirit frequently and earn elite status with Spirit Airlines, you'll enjoy a few perks for your efforts. Don't confuse these perks with status on United or American, as you won't find yourself with a free Spirit upgrade to the Big Front Seat. But, with enough Spirit flying, you may be able to snag a free upgrade to the exit row.

The Free Spirit program has two elevated levels you can earn: Gold and Silver. Free Spirit Silver members have a chance at a free upgrade to an exit row, but it'll take a bit of luck. Three hours before departure, Free Spirit Silver members can upgrade for free if an exit-row seat is available. Meanwhile, Free Spirit Gold members get a much more useful benefit: They can select exit-row seats when booking.

Related: What is Spirit Airlines elite status worth?

Bottom line

Spirit has options if you want a more comfortable seat, but many of them will cost you money. The Big Front Seat is the closest you'll get to a Spirit upgrade and you won't get it for free, regardless of whether you carry the Spirit credit card or have elite status in the Free Spirit program.

Now that Spirit has more long-haul flights, the comfort of an exit row seat can be worth the extra cash. I'm intrigued by Spirit's bidding system for upgrades to the exit row and Big Front Seat. Maybe when air travel slows down just a bit, bidding on an upgrade will be a good way for travelers to save a few bucks on the comfort they crave.

Spirit Check-in

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How can I check in for my Spirit Airlines (NK) flight?

You may check-in for your Spirit Airlines (NK) flight with the following options:

• Online check-in (Web check-in)
• Self-service kiosk check-in at the airport
• Ticket counter check-in at the airport

Does Spirit Airlines (NK) have online web check-in?

Yes, you may check-in for your Spirit Airlines (NK) flight online starting 24 hours and ending 60 minutes before the scheduled departure time (depending on your departure city and destination) to receive a mobile boarding pass on your mobile device or a printable boarding pass. You may use this option if:

• you have an electronic ticket and the first flight is on Spirit Airlines (NK)
• you may access your reservation with your confirmation code, e-ticket number, or frequent flyer account
• you are not a special needs passenger (for example an unaccompanied minor or traveling with a pet)

Can I check bags with the Spirit Airlines (NK) online web check-in?: Yes, you may check bags but you must drop them at the airport baggage drop before the check-in deadline for your flight.

Can I pay bag fees with the Spirit Airlines (NK) online web check-in?: Yes

Can I select or change my seat with the Spirit Airlines (NK) online web check-in?: Yes

Does Spirit Airlines (NK) offer mobile check-in?

Does spirit airlines (nk) offer curbside check-in (us carriers only), does spirit airlines (nk) offer self-service kiosk check-in.

Yes, you may check-in for your Spirit Airlines (NK) flight at the airport self-service kiosk from 30 minutes to 3 hours before the scheduled departure time (depending on your departure city and destination) and receive a printed boarding pass. Please note that there is a fee for printing a boarding pass.

Can I check bags with the Spirit Airlines (NK) self-service kiosk check-in?: Yes

Can I pay bag fees with the Spirit Airlines (NK) self-service kiosk check-in?: Yes

Can I select or change my seat with the Spirit Airlines (NK) self-service kiosk check-in?: Yes

Does Spirit Airlines (NK) offer ticket counter check-in?

Yes, you may check-in for your Spirit Airlines (NK) flight at the airport ticket counter from 30 minutes to 3 hours before the scheduled departure time (depending on your departure city and destination). Please note that you will pay $10.00 for a printed boarding pass and for ticket counter service.

Can I check bags at the Spirit Airlines (NK) ticket counter check-in?: Yes

Can I pay bag fees at the Spirit Airlines (NK) ticket counter check-in?: Yes

Can I select or change my seat at the Spirit Airlines (NK) ticket counter check-in?: Yes

Does Spirit Airlines (NK) charge a fee for a seat assignment?

Spirit Airlines (NK) does not charge a fee for selecting a seat assignment 24 hours to 30 minutes prior to scheduled departure time. However, you may pay a fee starting at $5.00 US for a seat assignment prior to 24 hours scheduled departure time.

When do I need to check-in for my Spirit Airlines (NK) flight?

The minimum time to check-in for a Spirit Airlines (NK) flight is:

• 30 minutes before scheduled departure time for US domestic flights
• 60 minutes before scheduled departure time for international flights to/from the US

When do I need to arrive at the airport for my Spirit Airlines (NK) flight?

Suggested arrival time:

• 2 hours before scheduled departure time for US domestic flights
• 3 hours before scheduled departure time for international flights to/from the US

Minimum required check-in time with carry-on baggage baggage:

• 30 minutes before scheduled departure time for US domestic flights*

Minimum required check-in time with checked baggage:

*45 minutes from Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Denver, Fort Lauderdale, Las Vegas, Los Ange-les, Minneapolis, New York Laguardia, Orlando, San Juan, and Tampa, 60 minutes from U S Virgin Islands

When do I need to be at the boarding gate?

Boarding closes at the following times for Spirit Airlines (NK) flights:

• 15 minutes before scheduled departure time for US domestic flights
• 30 minutes before scheduled departure time for international flights to/from the US

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Is there an optimal time to check in to a Spirit flight?

I am planning to take a Spirit flight where I have not prepaid for a seat assignment. I will let Spirit pick my seat for me, which happens when I check in.

From personal experience and from a few questionable sources, it seems like Spirit assigns seats at the back of the plane first (and possibly the middle seats first as well):

http://heelsfirsttravel.boardingarea.com/2014/09/30/aisle-window-seat-trick-wont-work-spirit-air/

https://www.flyertalk.com/forum/other-north-south-american-airlines/1752373-spirit-seat-assignment-algorithm-assigned-check.html

I haven't been able to find out much else via Google...

Both times where I have checked in as soon as possible (24 hours before), I ended up with a middle seat near the back of the plane. In the times where I waited longer (1-3 hours before), I have been able to get aisle and window seats. Of course, this is a very small sample size, so I don't know if it has just been a coincidence or if this is indicative of how their "random" seat assignment algorithm works.

Question: Is there an optimal time to check into a Spirit flight to maximize my chances of getting an aisle or window seat? If this is not possible, does anybody know if later check-ins will tend to seat me closer to the front of the plane?

EDIT: In case anybody is curious, I have two data points. I checked in ~3 hours before a flight and ended up with 7B, which is near the front but a middle seat. I also checked in ~16 hours before a flight and got 17F.

• spirit-airlines

2 Answers 2

They seem to follow the same approach as Ryan @#@# air: when you check in online, they will try to put you in a middle seat as long as they have one - in hope that you wouldn't like this and pay for another seat. This means the last minute check-in (an hour or so before the deadline) will give you the best chance to get an aisle/window or even emergency row seat.

One approach you can try to see the current seat allocation is to try to book a new ticket for the same flight - you would then see the seat map. Of course this only works if the flight isn't full.

But general rules remains the same:

• If the airline allows seat assignment upon checkin for free (or a token fee) - check in as early as possible. Set a phone alarm for that;
• Check if it is random/ongoing (you try to check in, abort it, try to check in again in 30 minutes - do you get the same seat?
• If no, just keep doing that until you get an ok seat.
• If yes, this means you're assigned a seat on your first check-in attempt even if you didn't complete it. Check in as late as possible then.

• Is it possible to see which seat you're supposed to get without actually checking in? I haven't tried and I don't quite remember, but I don't think you find out what seat you're actually going to get unless you confirm your check in. I endedup checking in about 3 hours before my flight and I ended up with seat 7B. It was close to the front but, unfortunately, a middle seat. Perhaps I will try waiting even later next time. –  nukeguy Commented May 29, 2017 at 5:11
• It is indeed possible (they want you to pay for a better seat), but if your question is whether your seat is allocated as soon as you try check-in and doesn't change if you check-in later, I don't remember. Please try to attempt the sequence above (try to check in, see the seat, abort the check in or "check out" if offered, then try again later) –  George Y. Commented May 30, 2017 at 1:05
• I just tried it again and I'm pretty sure it's not possible to view your seat without "checking in". Here's a cutout from the check-in screen: dropbox.com/s/pvl3cjeaiki8tmb/… The seat is left blank and the only way to see a seat number is if I click the "Check-in and print boarding pass" button, after which I am checked in and cannot re-check-in. –  nukeguy Commented Jun 4, 2017 at 3:27
• What happens if you instead press that "Change/Select Seat" button in the right top? Doesn't it show a predefined seat? Do you see the seatmap? –  George Y. Commented Jun 5, 2017 at 20:20
• 1 The good thing to check would be, if you open a seat map and see available seats (make a screenshot), and then close it and take an assigned seat - was your seat shown as free on that map? If so, if you open the map and see all middle seats taken, you know you won't get one. –  George Y. Commented Jun 8, 2017 at 15:27

I have noticed the exact same thing on Spirit Airlines. I used to check in the day before travel, but the last several times I got a rear middle seat, sometimes with nobody in the aisle or window seat next to me. I think they try to leave the preferable seats open as long as possible in hopes that somebody will pay for them. I now let other people check in and fill up those middle seats and then just check in at the airport.

• George Y's suggestion in his final comment above worked pretty well for me. I spent one check-in period monitoring how Spirit seats were filled up, and it seemed to be a very straightforward manner (back to front, and then either left to right or right to left). This was about a year ago so they might have changed it now, but it seems like it is possible to watch the seats fill up until the seat you want is the next available one, and then check in to get that seat (assuming nobody manages to hit "check in" in the few moments it takes you to exit the seat map and check in). –  nukeguy Commented Aug 20, 2018 at 18:50
• If my above comment is correct, then I think you don't want to wait too long to check in if your primary goal is to avoid a middle seat. In general, waiting tends to put you towards the front of the plane since they autofill from the back. However, people who pay for seats tend to pay for non-middle seats toward the front, so the ratio of available non-middle seats to available middle seats is lower toward the front. –  nukeguy Commented Aug 20, 2018 at 18:54

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Can You Choose Your Seat on Spirit Airlines? An In-depth Guide

Published on: September 12, 2023 Written by Karim Niru / Fact-checked by Evander Mac

Spirit Airlines, a popular budget airline, has a distinct seating policy that travelers should be aware of. When you book a flight with Spirit, the system can automatically and randomly assign you a seat during check-in at no extra cost. While this option saves money, it doesn’t guarantee that groups or families will sit together.

Furthermore, there are discussions, like on platforms such as Reddit, regarding how Spirit assigns seats . Many wonder about the charges for both seats and bags. It’s notable that while there are fees associated with seat selection and baggage, these enable Spirit to offer competitive ticket prices. If passengers opt not to pay for seat selection, they’re leaving their seating up to chance.

Curious about more details? We invite you to read the detailed article below for an in-depth look at Spirit Airlines’ seating policies .

The Spirit Airlines Seating Policy: A Broad Overview

Ever wondered what makes Spirit Airlines stand out from the rest? The airline operates a bit differently, and their seating arrangements are no exception. It’s not your everyday airline process, so let’s dive into it, shall we?

The Free Seat Assignment: Leaving it to Chance

There’s a bit of thrill in unpredictability. By not choosing a seat in advance on Spirit, the airline will assign you a seat at no additional cost . It’s like rolling the dice and seeing what you get. The plus side? You save money. The flip side? You might not sit next to your travel buddy. So, is the gamble worth it to you?

Opting for Paid Seat Selection: Peace of Mind vs. Pocket Pinch

Now, if rolling the dice isn’t your style, Spirit has you covered. For a fee, you can select your seat. Whether you’re eyeing that window view or need easy aisle access, there’s a price to make sure it’s yours.

The price varies based on the route and your seat’s location . So, ready to spend a little for that peace of mind?

Spirit Airlines’ Seat Map: Navigating the Best Spot

Changing your seat post check-in.

Life is unpredictable. Plans change. Similarly, you might want to swap your seat after check-in. Spirit does offer this flexibility, but it might cost you a tad more. Think of it as a last-minute ticket to your favorite show. Rare, but obtainable for a price.

Group Travel on Spirit: Ensuring Everyone Sits Together

Traveling in a pack? You wouldn’t want to scatter across the plane, right? Spirit Airlines has policies around group bookings. It’s a bit like reserving a big table at a restaurant. A tad tricky but possible. The trick is to book well in advance and choose seats together. Wouldn’t it be nice to chat with your friend or family during the flight rather than a random stranger?

Comparative Analysis: Spirit Airlines vs. Other Budget Carriers

Cost calculator: estimating your total flight expense.

Use the above calculator to gauge your overall flight cost with Spirit. Just input the individual prices, and voila, get your estimated total!

Community Insights: What Travelers Are Saying

Maximizing value: tips to save money & secure comfort, what does spirit airlines offer for seat assignments.

Spirit Airlines provides passengers with the option to select seats of their choice for a fee. Alternatively, seats can be randomly assigned at check-in at no extra charge.

Are Spirit Airlines Seats Reclining or Fixed in Position?

Are there additional costs for choosing a seat on other airlines, how can i choose my seat on spirit airlines.

When flying with Spirit Airlines, selecting your seat can be done during the booking process or by managing your reservation online. To choose your 19E seat Alaska Airlines , simply log into your account, navigate to your booked flight, and follow the instructions to select your desired seat. Remember, early selection allows you to secure your preferred seating arrangement.

Do Seat Sizes on Spirit Airlines Differ from Other Airlines?

How does spirit airlines assign seats, are you required to buy seats on spirit airlines.

No, you aren’t obligated to purchase a seat selection. However, if you opt-out, you’ll receive a randomly assigned seat at check-in.

Why Does Spirit Charge for Seats and Bags?

Can you change seats on spirit after checking in, is spirit airlines seat selection different from other airlines.

Every airline has its own policies. Spirit, being an ultra-low-cost carrier, offers seat selection as an additional service, which is a common approach among budget airlines.

Does Spirit Allow Travelers to Sit Together?

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20 Frequently Asked Questions About Flying Spirit Airlines

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Key Takeaways

• Spirit Airlines operates as an ultra-low-cost carrier, offering base fares with numerous optional add-ons, such as baggage, seat selection, and priority boarding.
• The airline’s fare model means that passengers pay for only what they use, making it a budget-friendly option for those who travel light and don’t require additional services.
• Spirit’s frequent flyer program, Free Spirit, offers rewards on flights and purchases, and members can earn points toward future travel.

Spirit Airlines is one of several U.S. ultra-low-cost carriers, but with a restrictive fare model and no-frills planes, it’s not necessarily for everyone.

There are many complexities and restrictions that many travelers aren’t aware of when booking Spirit tickets, since its tickets only include the bare bones. So we’re here to look in depth at some of the most frequently asked questions when it comes to flying Spirit Airlines. These include:

• How the airline operates
• How the ticketing process works
• Ticketing restrictions
• Ticketing fees and how to avoid them
• Seating options

1. What Is Spirit Airlines, and What Is Its Basic Business Model?

Spirit is an American ultra-low-cost airline that operates flights in the U.S., the Caribbean, Latin America, and South America.

The airline is headquartered in Miramar, Florida, with hubs in Atlanta (ATL), Atlantic City (ACY), Chicago (ORD), Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), Detroit (DTW), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Houston (IAH), Las Vegas (LAS), Miami (MIA), and Orlando (MCO).

It has a fleet size of about 200 aircraft that fly to more than 80 destinations worldwide, primarily within North America. The company slogan is “Less Money. More Go.”

As of 2023, Spirit Airlines has the following aircraft:

• Airbus A319-100
• Airbus A319neo (on order)
• Airbus A320-200
• Airbus A320neo
• Airbus A321-200
• Airbus A321neo (on order)

2. Why Is Spirit Airlines Considered Ultra-Low-Cost?

Spirit Airlines offers great deals and incredibly low-priced air tickets to its customers — there’s no secret about that. The base fare can be as low as $29 , sometimes even lower.

How does can it afford to sell fares for so low? In March 2007, Spirit changed its fare model by removing amenities (which inflate the base ticket price on other carriers). Spirit charges a low base fare, and customers must pay for carry-ons, drinks, food, seats with additional legroom, and baggage. The more amenities included, the more a ticket costs.

So, to capture its market, Spirit reduces the cost of a ticket and lets passengers buy all ancillary items, like seat selection or checked luggage , separately. This enables the carrier to earn extra revenue while posting fares much lower than traditional legacy carriers.

3. Do I Have to Purchase a Seat on Spirit Airlines?

You must purchase a ticket to fly on any of Spirit’s flights. The base fare is usually between $29 to $39 for cheaper tickets, though it could cost less or much more. Seats are assigned randomly at check-in — specific seat selection is not included in your ticket price unless you pay extra for it in advance.

That means there’s no guarantee that you’ll get to sit with family and friends unless you pay to choose seats. So if you are traveling with companions, take your time to read the Spirit Airlines policies, and purchase seats ahead of travel.

Bottom Line: Seat selection isn’t included with your ticket on Spirit, so you’ll need to pay more if you want to choose where to sit.

4. Can I Purchase a Seat Assignment While I Book My Ticket?

Yes, though Spirit considers this an á la carte option. To choose a seat you want, you have to pay for seat assignment, starting at $5.

You can also pick what’s known as a Big Front Seat, which is essentially a first-class-style seat, though with fewer perks. This upgrade starts at around $40. A Big Front Seat has 32% more legroom and no middle seat — prime real estate!

To view the seat prices for a specific flight, check the Seat page when booking online. You can also look under My Trips or the Online Check-in page within 24 hours of departure.

5. How Can I Book My Flight and Get My Boarding Pass?

Visit spirit.com for the quickest way to book your flight and get your boarding pass for free.

Start by signing in with your credentials. If you do not have an account, create one (it’s called a Free Spirit account). This only takes a few minutes; you can log in and print your pass at home.

Once you have created an account and signed in, select the Book tab. The page will display the following options:

• Round-trip, one-way, or multi-city
• Departure and return location
• Departure and return dates
• Number of adults and children

After you add the required details, click Search Flights.  You’ll see results on the page, where you can book your flight. If you have a promo code, the website lets you to enter it at checkout.

Once you finish the process, you can print your boarding pass. This is also a good time to buy a seat assignment, since these options are less expensive online than in person at the airport.

6. Can I Print My Boarding Pass at the Airport?

Yes, Spirit Airlines has simple self-service kiosks where you can purchase tickets and print boarding passes in minutes. (If you need assistance, there are customer service agents nearby.) You should complete your check-in or purchase of tickets at least 1 hour before departure .

Boarding passes are available at the check-in counter, but customers will be charged $10 to print a single boarding pass. So if you want to save, print your boarding pass at home.

Bottom Line: When it comes to Spirit bookings or boarding passes, avoid talking to a human if you don’t want to pay extra! At the airport, there are significant fees even to do simple tasks.

7. Who Can’t Check in Online To Fly With Spirit?

Here is a list of travelers who may not be able to complete check-in online:

• Unaccompanied minors
• Travelers with a lap infant
• Travelers with a military ID and no passport
• Non-U.S. citizens traveling from outside the U.S.
• Travelers who have purchased special items or extra seats
• Travelers who have made a group reservation of 10 or more
• Travelers with pets or service animals

These guests are required to check in at the airport counter. Unlike others who will be charged $10 when printing boarding passes at the airport, the guests listed above will have the $10 fee waived .

8. Can I Travel With an Infant on My Lap?

Yes, you are allowed to travel with an infant on your lap. Before departure, you should check in with Spirit staff . Spirit Airlines provides the following guidelines when it comes to traveling with an infant:

• Adult travelers (ages 15 and up) can carry 1 child per lap
• Infants under 7 days old or requiring life support systems like an incubator are not allowed to board (as is the case with most airlines)
• Car seats are not allowed in the emergency exit rows or any row close to the emergency exit
• Child car seats and lap children are not allowed to occupy seats with inflatable seatbelts
• You can add a lap child when booking online

Fees and taxes are applicable when an infant accompanies you . The amount charged depends on the destination.

9. Can Unaccompanied Minors Travel on Spirit Airlines?

Unaccompanied minors can travel alone, but only on domestic direct flights (within the U.S., the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico). They cannot travel unaccompanied on international flights , domestic flights where an aircraft change is scheduled, or connecting flights.

During flights, unaccompanied minors are taken care of by the airline staff. They will be offered snacks and beverages for a fee, just like any passenger. Unlike most legacy carriers, Spirit will not help children with gate transfers in connecting cities .

Here are the guidelines guests should follow when booking flights for unaccompanied minors:

• Inform Spirit Airlines staff that you are booking an unaccompanied minor
• Check in at the gate together with the minor at least 1 hour before departure
• Request a gate pass when dropping off the child (available at the reservation counter)
• Guests must accompany the child to the gate and remain within the gate area until the flight takes off (about 15 minutes after boarding)
• Unaccompanied minors will be released to the person indicated on the unaccompanied minor form or to a Spirit Airlines employee

10. Can I Cancel or Change My Flight Reservation?

Yes, but you will be charged a fee if it’s too close to the flight date. Here are the current cancellation and change charges:

Customers who purchase Flight Flex can change their ticket for free up to 24 hours before departure.

Spirit Airlines allows changes or cancellation requests to be made up to 1 hour before departure. If you cancel your reservation 0 to 60 days before departure, any remaining balance is issued as credit. If you cancel via Spirit’s Airlines online portal, you will be issued a $10 voucher (one-way) applicable on future travels, provided the reservation charge is less than the cancellation fee.

To make changes or cancel yourself, sign in to your account and click My Trips . If you prefer not to do it yourself, you can text 48763 or 855-728-3555 on WhatsApp, direct message Spirit on social media, call 855-728-3555, or speak to a Spirit agent at the airport. You can also visit the reservations desk, but may be charged for this service.

You can learn more about canceling in this post: How To Cancel a Spirit Airlines Flight [Points or Cash Ticket] .

Bottom Line: Canceling or changing a ticket can cost you (at least $39 if you do it online). 

11. Can I Change My Name on a Spirit Reservation?

Yes, you’re allowed to change a name that’s misspelled by a few characters. Doing so is free of charge. To change your misspelled name, contact Spirit Airlines’ customer support team.

You can also request a change of your legal name, though you must provide reasons for the change and supporting documents (like a divorce decree, marriage license, or court order). You can request a name change online. Visit spirit.com/help — at the bottom, you should find an option to attach your documents.

If you need to change your contact information, date of birth, passport number, or gender, contact the Spirit’s reservations center or email the customer support team. Remember to have copies of your legal documents.

12. Can I Travel With My Mobility Aid or Wheelchair on Spirit?

Yes, Spirit Airlines accepts mobility aids and wheelchairs for travelers. You can carry these devices onto your flight at no charge . To check your mobility aid or wheelchair, visit the ticket or gate counter.

If you’re traveling with a battery-powered mobility aid or wheelchair, we recommend arriving at the airport 2 hours before departure to ensure it’s handled properly. Officials at the ticket counter will recommend that you carry any detachable items like footrests or seat cushions on board yourself. If this is not an option, they may be stowed in the cargo bin.

To make your check-in process fast and smooth, Spirit requests that guests provide the airport crew with written instructions on handling the wheelchair or mobility aid and recommends bringing your user manual. You can also fill in a mobility aid information form .

13. What Are Spirit’s Baggage Fees?

Spirit Airlines allows travelers to check in with 1 personal item the size of a small box (such as a small backpack, handbag, or purse). These items are included in your base fare, so you will not be charged extra. However, Spirit will charge for extra baggage and some personal items.

If you plan on carrying extra luggage, check in online before departure ! The charge for your extra items will be lower if you add them when booking your flight than if you wait and do it at the airport. Fees for carry-on bags start at $31.

Hot Tip: Prepay your bags when you purchase your trip to reduce expenses incurred at the airport.

Personal items allowed by Spirit’s airport crew at no charge include cameras, assistive devices, umbrellas, coats, wraps, hats, and books. Head and neck pillows are allowed, but they must fit inside your backpack or bag.

There’s a common misconception that true low-cost carriers such as Spirit don’t allow small personal items on board — which is why we’re so thorough in mentioning everything you can and cannot bring with you.

Bottom Line: If you’re carrying on a bag (non-personal item), you could pay north of $50.

14. Where Can I Check the Size and Weight Limits for Bags?

Spirit Airlines allows personal items or backpacks under 18 x 14 x 8 inches, including wheels and handles.

The maximum dimensions for a carry-on bag are 22 x 18 x 10 inches. If your carry-on is too big to be stowed safely in the cargo bin, you must check it (and pay extra).

For checked bags, it’s a maximum of 62 total linear inches (the sum of the height, width, and depth, in inches) and 40 pounds. Bags weighing over 40 pounds are charged more because they require special handling, and extra weight means the plane has to use more fuel during flight. Bags over 100 pounds cannot be accepted.

Certain regions, such as South America, have additional baggage restrictions, so be sure to check the Spirit website before you go to the airport.

Hot Tip: If you’re planning to travel with a checked or carry-on bag, make sure to check it online! Doing so at the airport will cost more.

15. Can I Carry My Personal Dialysis Machine, Insulin Device, or Other Medical Devices on Board?

Yes, Spirit Airlines allows you to carry a portable dialysis machine on board at no extra cost, and it doesn’t count toward your baggage allowance. Your device should not exceed 22 inches by 18 inches by 10 inches.

Although Spirit allows you to carry on these medical devices, it prohibits using the machine during the flight. The planes do not have compatible electrical plugs to charge or power medical devices.

Passengers are welcome to carry insulin on board, but it’s recommended that guests inform airline staff about the insulin before boarding. Insulin is normally stored in special bags aboard the flight for safekeeping.

Like other medical devices, insulin will not incur a fee during check-in. However, if your insulin is in a bag together with other personal items (like socks, electronics, and clothing), you might owe a fee for the other personal items if the weight exceeds the recommended limit.

For more information about traveling with insulin and other medical assistive devices, check the TSA website .

16. Can I Carry My Sports Equipment on Board?

It depends. You can carry some sports equipment on your flight. All checked sports equipment, such as hockey sticks, tennis racquets, and others, are charged just like a standard checked bag and stored in the hold. The sports equipment should be secured inside a bag. Spirit will charge you for a separate bag if they are not packed securely in the bag.

Spirit Airlines only permits non-battery-operated and non-motorized skateboards. Electric or battery-operated skateboards and other sports equipment cannot be checked (batteries can contain hazardous materials that can endanger other travelers and the plane).

Sports items not within the normal carry-on dimensions will be checked in the hold, and you will be charged a checked baggage fee .

17. Can I Fly With a Musical Instrument?

Musical instruments such as ukuleles, violins, guitars, cellos, accordions, saxophones, acoustic guitars, electric guitars, and bass guitars are considered fragile. To prevent damage, pack your musical instruments in a case.

Instruments are charged like any other checked bag, meaning you’ll have to pay the checked bag price and any overweight charges. You must also sign a release form before departure that relieves Spirit of liability for damage or loss of the musical instrument.

18. What Is the Spirit Saver$ Club? How Do I Join, and What Are the Benefits?

Distinct from the Free Spirit program, Spirit has a program called the Spirit Saver$ Club (formerly known as the $9 Fare Club). This club offers benefits, including discounted fares, baggage fees, seats, and time-saving options for a fee of $69.95 for 12 months, $99.90 for 18 months, or $129.90 for 24 months. You could offset the membership fee above in as little as 1 booking, so the savings are potentially significant!

To join the Spirit Saver$ Club, you are required to register online and submit the following details:

• First, middle, and last name
• Date of birth
• Email address
• Contact information

You’ll also have to provide your billing information. Spirit Airlines accepts major credit cards and other popular payment systems, and your membership is renewed each year automatically unless canceled.

Benefits of joining the Spirit Saver$ Club include:

• Exclusive discounted fares for yourself and up to 8 additional guests
• Up to 50% off on checked and carry-on bags for you and up to 8 additional guests
• Your entire party will save on every seat, including the Big Front Seat and exit rows
• Save on elements like Shortcut Security, Shortcut Boarding, and Flight Flex
• Exclusive offers with Spirit partners
• Discounted seats, shortcut security, and shortcut boarding

19. What Is the Free Spirit Frequent Flyer Program?

Free Spirit is a free rewards program created by Spirit Airlines to reward its customers for flying Spirit on an ongoing basis. To join the program, you must fill out a membership form with the following details:

A welcome email with your account information is sent to your inbox if registration is successful. Alternatively, you can become a Free Spirit member when you book your first flight.

Benefits of the Free Spirit Program include:

• Earn points when you fly with Spirit Airlines and partners
• Buy or gift points to family members and friends (Gold and Silver elite members can also pool points)
• Use the points for travel
• Track the points earned
• Book and manage your reservations faster

You can book and manage your flight reservation using Spirit Airlines mobile app on Apple or Android. If you have questions about bookings and managing your reservations within the program, call Spirit Airlines at 801-401-2222.

20. How Can I Save by Booking a Spirit Ticket at the Airport?

Strangely enough, you can save upwards of $19 per ticket if you book at the airport . This is the opposite of most of Spirit’s policies, where speaking to someone at the airport incurs a fee.

Because airlines must pay a federal excise task on base fares, Spirit tries to avoid paying this tax by adding an $18.99 passenger usage fee to tickets booked over the phone or online. This fee is not a tax and is included in most online and phone booking scenarios. In this way, Spirit can increase what is essentially the fare of the ticket so it doesn’t incur the additional tax.

Because the fee is only applied to online or phone bookings, you can avoid this $18.99 charge by booking at the airport. When you arrive at the airport, speak to a customer service representative to get around paying this nuisance fee.

When you get to the counter, let them know your preferred travel dates and routing, and they’ll price out the itinerary for you, less the $18.99 fee. While this does save you money on your ticket cost, you need to weigh the cost of driving to the airport and getting this done, which could be more expensive than just paying the fee at home.

Bottom Line: It may sound counterintuitive, but booking a ticket at the airport can save you money.

There are many nuances to booking Spirit tickets, but with a little know-how, it’s easy to figure things out and save a few bucks. Spirit can save you a ton of money when you travel, and understanding its processes and policies will help you maximize the experience and not overpay.

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Spirit Airlines - seat selection

My SO and I are visiting family next weekend and we booked a flight through Spirit. I’m very aware of how much Spirit sucks, but it’s a 2 hour direct flight and was the cheapest by $200-300 per ticket.

We opted to not select our seats to save us $80 total roundtrip. My question is, from previous experience, does Spirit usually auto-assign seats together, or do they separate groups? Or is it a toss up?

We don’t care where in the plane we sit or if we get a middle seat, but we’d prefer to sit together (however, I also think we’d prefer to save $80 and be separated for 2 hours…). Just curious on everyone’s experiences.

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Spirit Airlines check-in

How can i check in for a spirit airlines flight.

When you are traveling with Spirit Airlines, you can choose one of the following options to check in for your flight:

• Online /Mobile Check-in – free.
• Kiosk Check-in .
• At an airport ticket counter – there is a $25 fee per passenger charged when the boarding pass is printed by a Spirit Airlines agent at domestic airports; the fee is waived for passengers who are unable to complete Online/Mobile Check-in or departing from West Palm Beach, Florida .

What are the minimum check-in times that apply for Spirit Airlines flights?

Spirit Airlines recommends that you check local news and airport information prior to arrival at the airport and arrive at the airport with enough time in advance (2 hours for domestic flights and 3 hours for international flights) to allow you to obtain the boarding pass (if you haven’t checked in online), passing through security and getting to the boarding gate on time.

All passengers are required to obtain their boarding passes before the minimum check-in times , which apply also for passengers checking baggage and are the following:

• 45 minutes – for domestic flights.
• 60 minutes – for international and US Virgin Islands flights.

If these minimum check-in times are not met, and you do not obtain your boarding pass at least 45 or 60 minutes, whichever applies, prior to the scheduled or posted departure time, Spirit Airlines reserves the right to cancel your reservation or seat assignment.

Online/Mobile Check-in

Online/Mobile Check-in is available if you have a confirmed domestic or international reservation for a Spirit Airlines flight. Due to security directives issued by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), Online/Mobile Check-in may not be available in certain international locations. Online/Mobile Check-in is available between 24 hours and 60 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

During Online/Mobile Check-in, you have the following options:

• Purchase carry-on and/or checked bags – at lower rates than fees charged at the airport .
• Buy a seat assignment – free of charge, Spirit will assign random seats at check-in, but you can request a seat assignment from $1 to $200 for regular seats and from $12 to $750 for Big Front Seats .

Prior to buying bags or seats and printing/emailing the boarding pass, passengers traveling internationally are required to enter passport information.

With your boarding pass printed or emailed on your mobile device , you can proceed directly to the Fast Bag Drop (available at certain airports if you bought online bags weighing up to 40 lbs) to drop off your luggage, then through security and to the boarding gate.

Ticket Counter Check-in

Spirit Airlines requires certain passengers to check in at the airport ticket counter:

• Passengers traveling to/from certain international destinations.
• Non-US citizens who depart from international locations.
• Passengers who purchased an extra seat or special items.
• Passengers traveling with an infant on lap .
• Unaccompanied Minors .
• Passengers traveling with pets or Service Animals .
• Passengers traveling on a group reservation (10 or more passengers).
• Passengers traveling with Military ID instead of a passport.

If  you are  not present   at  the boarding  gate at least 15 minutes before departure for domestic flights or 30 minutes for international flights , Spirit Airlines may cancel your reservation, and you may become ineligible for denied boarding compensation. Passengers needing assistance and Unaccompanied Minors are invited to board first .

More information here >>

Spirit Airlines info

• Covid Rules
• Baggage & carry-on

Spirit Airlines seating maps

• Airbus A319
• Airbus A320 178PAX
• Airbus A320 182PAX
• Airbus A321 228PAX

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