Spirit Airlines is bringing back change and cancellation fees for its basic “Go” fares, marking a shift from the more flexible policies the airline had introduced in 2023. The reinstated fees, effective for reservations booked on or after February 5, 2025, mean that travelers will now have to pay extra to modify or cancel certain flights.
What’s Changing?
Previously, Spirit had removed change and cancellation fees across all fare types, offering travelers more flexibility. However, under the new policy, passengers who book the lowest-tier "Go" fares will now be subject to the following fees:
- Change Fees for “Go” Fares:
- Modifications made 31 to 59 days before departure: $59
- Modifications made 7 to 30 days before departure: $79
- Modifications made within 7 days of departure: $99
- Cancellation Fee for “Go” Fares:
- A flat fee of $99, regardless of when the cancellation occurs.
One exception remains: travelers who cancel or modify their booking 60 or more days before departure can still do so without any fees.
Who Is Affected?
This policy change mainly impacts budget-conscious travelers who book Spirit’s lowest fare tier. However, those who purchase higher-tier fare bundles—such as "Go Big," "Go Savvy," or "Go Comfy"—will continue to enjoy no change or cancellation fees. These premium fare options also come with additional perks like extra baggage allowance and priority boarding.
Why the Change?
The move comes as Spirit Airlines works to recover from financial challenges. The airline filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in late 2024, following the failed merger with Frontier Airlines. As part of its financial restructuring efforts, Spirit is reintroducing fees to generate additional revenue while still offering flexible options for those willing to pay for them.
What This Means for Travelers
Passengers booking with Spirit should carefully review fare details before purchasing tickets. Those who anticipate needing flexibility may find it worthwhile to opt for a higher-tier fare to avoid hefty change and cancellation fees.
For budget travelers, this change serves as a reminder to book only when plans are firm—otherwise, the cost of modifying a flight could add up quickly.
With this latest adjustment, Spirit Airlines is signaling a return to more traditional budget airline pricing strategies. While the base fares may remain low, travelers will need to be mindful of added fees that could impact the overall cost of their trip.
