Spirit’s Latest Expansion Adds 2 Iconic Southern Destinations—What to Know

• Spirit Airlines is adding the underrated cities of Chattanooga and Columbia to its route network
• The news comes after rough times for the low-cost carrier, which had been cutting routes and filed for bankruptcy

Travelers in the south are getting new options for low-cost domestic travel this summer.

After cutting routes and filing for bankruptcy in the fall, Spirit Airlines has announced two new cities and six new routes, expanding to Chattanooga, TN and Columbia, SC. 

The new routes will launch from Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport (CHA) on June 4 and from Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) on June 5th. Chattanooga will gain the only non-stop service from the city to Fort Lauderdale (FLL) three times per week, Newark (EWR) four times per week, and Orlando (MCO) four times per week. Travelers can purchase introductory fare tickets starting at $50. 

“We’re excited to expand our Tennessee network and welcome our CHA Guests onboard as we launch three new nonstop routes, just in time for a fun summer vacation,” John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines, said in a statement shared with Travel + Leisure. “Chattanooga is known as the Scenic City for good reason, and travelers from major East Coast cities can discover a new destination with southern charm, breathtaking views and endless outdoor activities.”

Columbia gains nonstop service to Newark (EWR) four times per week and Orlando (MCO) three times per week, plus flights to Fort Lauderdale (FLL) three times per week, with fare starting at $50.

“Travelers from South Carolina’s capital city will soon enjoy convenient nonstop options and Spirit’s recently transformed experience on their way to various destinations with beaches, theme parks and big city attractions,” John Kirby said in a statement.

Travels can enjoy the theme parks at Disneyworld and Universal Orlando, the beaches of the Florida coast in Ft. Lauderdale, and easy access to New York City from Newark.