Changing travel plans is a common part of modern life. Whether it’s a sudden work meeting, family emergency, or simply a change of heart, flexibility is key when booking flights. If you’re flying with Spirit Airlines, it’s essential to understand their rules. The Spirit Airlines flight change policy outlines what options are available to passengers when they need to reschedule or adjust their booking.
In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the Spirit Airlines flight change policy, including how changes work, when fees apply, and how to avoid unnecessary costs.
Why Understanding the Spirit Airlines Flight Change Policy Matters
Spirit Airlines is known for offering ultra-low fares by unbundling services that other carriers include. This approach gives passengers control over what they pay for, but it also means that policies like flight changes come with specific rules.
Knowing the Spirit Airlines flight change policy can help you:
Avoid last-minute surprises
Minimize change or cancellation fees
Take full advantage of flexible options
Better plan for emergencies or unexpected changes
Let’s take a closer look at what the policy involves.
When Can You Change a Spirit Airlines Flight?
According to the Spirit Airlines flight change policy, you can make changes to your reservation up to one hour before the scheduled departure time. However, the earlier you make the change, the more flexibility (and lower cost) you’ll enjoy.
Spirit allows flight changes:
Online via their website or mobile app
Over the phone with customer service
At the airport (though this often involves higher fees)
Spirit Airlines Flight Change Fees
Spirit Airlines charges change fees based on how far in advance you make the adjustment. These fees are separate from any fare difference you may need to pay for the new flight.
Here’s how the fee structure generally works:
60+ Days Before Departure: No change fee
31–59 Days Before Departure: $69 fee
7–30 Days Before Departure: $99 fee
0–6 Days Before Departure: $119 fee
The Spirit Airlines flight change policy emphasizes that fees are lower when changes are made further in advance. Therefore, if you suspect you may need to adjust your flight, act as early as possible.
What If the New Flight Is Cheaper or More Expensive?
In addition to the change fee, you’ll also need to consider fare differences. If your new flight costs more than your original, you’ll be responsible for paying the difference.
If the new flight is cheaper, you won’t receive a cash refund. Instead, Spirit may provide you with a travel credit (depending on your fare type), but this isn’t guaranteed.
The Spirit Airlines flight change policy does not provide automatic refunds for downgraded fares, so it’s important to review options carefully before confirming the change.
How to Change a Flight with Spirit Airlines
Making a flight change is relatively straightforward. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Online (Best Option)
Go to Spirit.com and click on “My Trips.” Enter your confirmation number and last name to access your booking. Select “Change Flight,” and follow the steps to pick a new date or destination.
2. Mobile App
The Spirit app provides a similar experience to the website. It’s fast, convenient, and avoids additional service charges.
3. Call Center
You can call Spirit’s customer service, but you may encounter long hold times. Also, over-the-phone changes might carry an additional fee.
4. Airport Ticket Counter
Not recommended unless it’s a last-minute change. This method is time-consuming and usually involves higher service charges.
The Spirit Airlines flight change policy encourages passengers to make changes online to keep costs low and avoid unnecessary delays.
Flight Flex: A Worthwhile Add-On?
Spirit offers an optional service called Flight Flex, which allows one free modification to your itinerary without a change fee. You still have to pay the fare difference (if any), but you won’t be charged the usual fee.
Flight Flex can only be used once per booking and must be purchased during the initial booking process. It’s not available for group bookings or last-minute changes.
If you expect your plans might change, Flight Flex is a smart way to minimize costs under the Spirit Airlines flight change policy.
Same-Day Flight Changes
Need to travel earlier or later on the same day? Spirit allows same-day standby or confirmed flight changes for a fee (usually around $99), depending on seat availability.
The Spirit Airlines flight change policy makes it clear that same-day changes are subject to restrictions and must be made at the airport.
Cancellations vs. Changes
Sometimes, canceling a flight is more practical than changing it—especially if your travel plans are uncertain. If you cancel more than 60 days in advance, Spirit waives the cancellation fee. Closer to departure, cancellation fees mirror the change fee structure.
Spirit provides a Reservation Credit for canceled flights. This credit must be used within 90 days and can be applied to future travel.
The Spirit Airlines flight change policy and cancellation policy are closely aligned, so consider both options when rebooking your trip.
Exceptions to the Rule
There are a few exceptions to the typical Spirit Airlines flight change policy:
Within 24 Hours of Booking: You can cancel or change your reservation for free, as long as your flight is at least 7 days away.
Flight Cancellations by Spirit: If Spirit cancels your flight, you’re entitled to a full refund or a free rebooking.
Travel Insurance: If you purchased third-party travel insurance, check if it covers changes or cancellations due to emergencies.
Tips to Avoid Spirit Airlines Flight Change Fees
To navigate the Spirit Airlines flight change policy like a pro, keep these tips in mind:
Act Early: Change or cancel your flight more than 60 days before departure to avoid fees.
Use Flight Flex: Add it during booking if there’s a chance your plans might shift.
Double-Check Details: Enter traveler and flight info carefully during booking to avoid needing changes later.
Stay Updated: Sign up for flight alerts in case of delays or cancellations by the airline.
Compare Fees: Sometimes it’s cheaper to cancel and rebook rather than pay a high change fee plus fare difference.
Final Thoughts
The Spirit Airlines flight change policy may seem rigid at first glance, but with the right knowledge and preparation, you can adjust your plans without breaking the bank. Spirit’s low-cost model means they charge for flexibility, but by acting early and using their tools wisely, you can manage changes efficiently.
Whether you’re modifying your travel date, switching destinations, or canceling altogether, understanding the Spirit Airlines flight change policy gives you the confidence to fly smarter. Always read the fine print, plan ahead, and explore all your options to keep your travel plans as flexible (and affordable) as possible.