CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Spirit Airlines is adding a new nonstop flight out of Charlotte Douglas International Airport.
Starting Oct. 10, passengers can catch a flight from Charlotte to New Orleans. The new route will run five times a week. Bookings are already open for travelers making plans.
The announcement comes about two weeks after Frontier Airlines reportedly announced plans to end its service from Charlotte to New Orleans as part of nationwide cutbacks.
Meanwhile, Spirit is moving away from its budget status to include more perks for travelers. The Florida-based airline announced a "Go Big" package in July, giving customers priority check-in, bigger seats, snacks, drinks, a checked bag, a carry-on bag and free WiFi.
“We listened to our guests and are excited to deliver what they want: choices for an elevated experience that are affordable and provide unparalleled value,” CEO Ted Christie said in a statement issued by Spirit.
It's the biggest change the budget airline has rolled out as it fights for a bigger market share. More importantly, it could be critical to the company staying afloat.
Spirit hasn't made a full-year profit since 2019, losing nearly $2.4 billion since, according to the Associated Press, leading many airline experts to wonder if the company known for its bright yellow jets could file bankruptcy.
Spirit has other problems, including a looming debt payment of more than $1 billion and a shortage of planes because some of its jets are grounded for inspections and repairs of Pratt & Whitney engines. Spirit expects compensation of up to $200 million from the engine maker, but its condition is dire enough that Spirit announced in April it would furlough some pilots and delay delivery of new jets.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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