Spirit Airlines celebrates 30 years in Fort Myers, adds Puerto Rico service

A Spirit Airlines aircraft on the tarmac.
Photo Credit: Spirit Airlines

Spirit Airlines (NYSE: SAVE) is celebrating three decades of service in Southwest Florida.

The carrier has now launched the only nonstop flight between Luis Muñoz Marin International Airport (SJU) and Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW).

Spirit first landed in Fort Myers in 1993 and has grown to offer nonstop service to 14 destinations and 20-peak day departures from the Midwest to the East Coast.

A Three Decade Journey


Since its touchdown in Fort Myers in 1993, Spirit Airlines has evolved into a key player, offering nonstop service to 14 destinations and boasting 20 peak-day departures from the Midwest to the East Coast.

The latest feather in their cap is the exclusive nonstop service to San Juan, Puerto Rico, unveiled as part of the airline’s 30th-anniversary celebration.

John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines, expresses gratitude for the enduring support from Fort Myers.

He emphasizes the exciting opportunity created by the nonstop service to San Juan, fostering a seamless connection between two vibrant communities.

This move aligns with Spirit’s mission to provide reliable and convenient service, making travel a pleasure for its passengers.

Close-up of a Spirit Airlines jet.
Photo Credit: Spirit Airlines.

Expanding Horizons


Spirit’s foray into San Juan follows the successful launch of three new routes from RSW to Charleston (CHS), Norfolk (ORF), and Richmond (RIC) in November.

This latest network expansion not only caters to the diverse travel needs of passengers but also further strengthens Spirit’s positioning in the competitive airline industry.

Commendation from Lee County Port Authority

Ben Siegel, Executive Director of the Lee County Port Authority, commends the introduction of nonstop flights to San Juan, highlighting its significance as the most sought-after Caribbean destination at RSW.

 The new service is poised to facilitate travel for Southwest Florida residents, connecting them with family and friends in Puerto Rico while fostering business partnerships with Fort Myers.

Elevated Guest Experience


Amidst this celebratory atmosphere, Spirit Airlines reaffirms its commitment to enhancing the guest experience.

The airline’s Fit Fleet®, renowned for its fuel efficiency, is set to receive a boost with the anticipated delivery of several brand-new planes in 2024.

Moreover, Spirit announces cabin enhancements, including wider seats, added cushion, new headrests, and upgrades to their exclusive Big Front Seat®.

High-Flying Amenities

In tune with the digital age, Spirit Airlines offers fast onboard Wi-Fi, allowing guests to enjoy streaming content during their journey.

This amenity adds a modern touch to the travel experience, catering to the preferences of today’s tech-savvy passengers.

Accolades and Recognitions 2023


Looking back on the past year, Spirit’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed, and the airline locked away several notable accomplishments and awards. In June of this year, the airline celebrated its 30th anniversary in Orlando.

Aviation Week Network’s Air Transport World (ATW) honored Spirit Airlines as the Value Airline of the Year in the ATW 2023 Airline Industry Achievement Awards.

The carrier also secured a Four Star Low-Cost Carrier (LCC) rating in the 2024 APEX/IFSA Awards, based solely on passenger feedback.

Furthermore, the airline’s dedication to safety earned it the FAA’s “Aviation Maintenance Technician Diamond Award of Excellence” for the fifth consecutive year.

Travel Weekly also recognized the Spirit Charitable Foundation as a Gold Winner in the 2023 Magellan Awards for Giving Back.

By Len Varley - Assistant Editor 4 Min Read
4 Min Read
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