The Impact of the Potential Spirit and Frontier Merger on the US Airline Industry

On a recent announcement, Spirit and Frontier Airlines intend to merge if regulatory approvals are granted. In this article, we explore the experiences of those who have flown with these airlines and discuss how the proposed merger might affect the competitive landscape of the US airline industry.

Experiences with Spirit Airlines

I have only flown on Spirit several times, and my experiences have been mixed. Once, the planes departed and arrived on time, which is a relief when traveling in an industry known for delays. However, the passenger seating was incredibly tight and smaller than other airlines. For short flights lasting 2 hours or less, the seating was tolerable, but for larger flights or ones involving a layover, one would be uncomfortable.

If you plan to take multiple carry-ons, including a gym bag and laptop bag, you'll need to be prepared to pay additional fees. Spirit's extra fees often make it no cheaper than other airlines. If you manage to secure a direct flight with just a gym bag, you can save up to $150-$200, but for every extra bag, the cost can add up quickly. Unfortunately, Spirit's seats lack padding, so after a few hours, they become quite uncomfortable.

Luckily, it is often easier to find an affordable direct flight with Spirit, especially when booking at the last minute. While similar prices can be found with regular airlines, those typically require booking months in advance on non-refundable flights. This flexibility was invaluable for last-minute flights, where I consistently saved $150-$200 but only carried a gym bag size carry-on.

Experiences with Frontier Airlines

While I haven't flown Spirit, I have experience with Frontier. Growing up, Frontier was a respected regional airline before the deregulation of the airline industry. Sadly, it collapsed due to poor management following deregulation. However, it was later reborn as a low-cost carrier, only to have limited success.

In its current incarnation as an ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC), Frontier has struggled with multiple flight cancellations and significant delays. The planes are often uncomfortable with minimal amenities. Spirit and Frontier do not typically compete on routes, suggesting that the merger may not significantly alter the competitive dynamics of the US airline industry. If Spirit acquires Frontier, the merged airline might offer a broader range of routes and price points, potentially disrupting the market in the long run.

Another investor in Frontier, I can confirm that they have made some improvements. My seats now have more legroom and improved comfort, even though they remain thinner than some other seat options. This change brings a slight improvement to the overall flying experience, though they still lack the amenities of premium airlines.

The Future of Airline Competition

The potential merger between Spirit and Frontier raises the question of how this will affect competition in the US airline industry. Given that the two airlines typically do not compete on the same routes, it is unlikely that the merger will significantly reduce competition. However, the combined carrier could enhance its market reach and pricing strategy, which might pose a challenge to other airlines.

Given the current market conditions and the airlines' track records, it will be interesting to see how the merged company will navigate the competitive landscape. Whether this merger will improve consumer experiences or create more barriers to entry remains to be seen. The regulatory environment will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of this proposed merger.

Conclusion

The proposed merger between Spirit and Frontier Airlines is a significant event in the US airline industry. While personal experiences with these airlines suggest a mixed bag, the merger's impact on competition and consumer experience is yet to be determined. Regulatory approval and market dynamics will be key factors in the final outcome.

To stay updated on the latest in the US airline industry, continue following industry news and updates. The consolidation of airlines in recent years highlights the continued evolution of the travel landscape. Stay informed to make the most out of your next flight.

Keywords: Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, Airline Merger