LONDON – Aviation Week Network’s Air Transport World (ATW) has named Spirit Airlines the ‘Value Airline of the Year’ as part of the ATW 2023 Airline Industry Achievement Awards.
About the ATW awards
The ATW Airline Industry Achievement Awards were established in 1974 to recognize excellence across a broad range of airline operations.
They are bestowed upon individuals and organizations that have distinguished themselves through outstanding performance, innovation and superior service.
Winners are selected by a panel of editors and analysts at ATW, Routes, Aviation Week and CAPA, and the award will be presented to Spirit Airlines at an awards ceremony on June 2 prior to IATA Annual General Meeting.
“Congratulations to Spirit Airlines for their outstanding achievements in 2022. We’re thrilled to reveal this year’s winners in what was the most competitive field yet.”
“The final selections illustrate the strength of the market recovery across the air transport industry, and we look forward to honoring and celebrating these deserving winners,” said ATW Editor-in-Chief Karen Walker.
Spirit airlines list of initiatives
Following the announcement of the award, the US ultra-low-cost carrier cited a range of initiatives which it is implemented to better deliver ultra-low fare travel.
Cabin enhancements and upgrades
Spirit completed a major cabin refresh in 2019, and starting in April 2023, Spirit is introducing wider seats with more cushion and new headrests.
The seats come with an environmental benefit as well with a decrease of nearly 11 ounces per seat courtesy of advances in materials and seat frame technology.
Fleet operations
The current fleet line-up is one of the most fuel-efficient fleets in the industry. In Q2 2023, Spirit is expecting to receive its 200th Airbus delivery, and the airline also plans to accept its first A321neo.
The airline’s fleet rationalization will also involve the sale and replacement of its 29 Airbus A319 aircraft.
Additionally, Spirit recently announced an agreement with Pratt & Whitney for PW1100G-JM engines to power its latest order of new Airbus A320neo Family aircraft.
The GTF engine has demonstrated its promised ability to reduce fuel burn and carbon emissions by 16 percent on A320neo Family aircraft.
Additionally, the engine reduces nitrogen oxide emissions by 50 percent compared to the regulatory standard, and reduce the noise footprint by 75 percent.
Considering its standing as an ultra-low cost carrier, Spirit Airlines boasts some rather upmarket in-flight services for passengers.
Spirit Guests can now binge their favorite shows via Spirit Wi-Fi on flights operated by its Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft.
It is the first time a U.S.-based ultra-low fare airline has offered high-speed Wi-Fi for a true broadband experience in the air.
Infrastructure investments
Spirit completed major investments throughout its operation while it prepares for future growth. In 2022, Spirit added another large aircraft maintenance facility at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) with two aircraft bays and ramp space for up to four aircraft.
Additionally, Spirit launched new crew bases in Miami, Atlanta & Houston to continue strengthening its operation.
Major investments in technology continue to strengthen and evolve Spirit’s systems and increase automation for greater efficiency.
Ted Christie, President and CEO of Spirit Airlines thanked the airline team, saying: “My deepest gratitude goes to our incredible Spirit Family who made this recognition possible through their hard work, innovation and commitment to serving each other and our Guests.”
