News Summary
Spirit Airlines is set to launch a new nonstop flight route from Fort Lauderdale to Key West, enhancing travel options within Florida. Starting November 6, the service will operate four times a week with an introductory fare of $79. This route aims to provide travelers a direct alternative to lengthy bus rides and driving, as no other airlines offer direct flights to Key West. The airline is also making efforts to improve service after restructuring and aims to attract more affluent passengers with upgraded seating options.
Florida – Spirit Airlines is launching a new nonstop flight route connecting Fort Lauderdale to Key West, starting on November 6, 2025. This service aims to enhance travel options within Florida by offering the only direct flight between Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) and Key West International Airport (EYW).
The new flights will operate four times a week, specifically on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays, with a scheduled flight time of approximately 50 minutes. Starting December 18, 2025, the airline will increase the service frequency to daily flights.
To entice travelers, Spirit Airlines is offering an introductory one-way fare starting at $79 for passengers who make reservations by November 19, 2025. This pricing presents a cost-effective alternative to other travel methods, as no other airlines provide direct flights from Palm Beach International Airport (PBIA) to Key West. Passengers opting for alternative travel options would face additional layovers and substantial expenses.
For those traveling by bus from West Palm Beach to Key West, tickets range from $30 to $50, with travel times extending up to 12 hours. Individuals preferring to drive can expect the journey from Fort Lauderdale to Key West to take between three to five hours, contingent on traffic conditions. It is important to note that there is no train service available. The last train connection was discontinued in 1935 due to hurricane damage, limiting accessibility to the Keys by rail.
Travelers utilizing Spirit Airlines should be aware that the airline does not provide complimentary in-flight WiFi or meals, as all amenities must be paid for individually. Each passenger is permitted one free personal item, adhering to size limitations of 18 inches by 14 inches by eight inches.
This new route follows Spirit Airlines’ recent restructuring efforts, which included emerging from bankruptcy and reporting a substantial loss of $1.2 billion for the year 2024. To stabilize its operations, the carrier has reduced its workforce by approximately 200 employees and diminished the number of flights offered. In an effort to attract a wealthier clientele and improve passenger experiences, Spirit Airlines is introducing upgraded seating options on its aircraft.
John Kirby, the Vice President of Network Planning for Spirit Airlines, emphasized the unique appeal of Key West as a destination. The newly introduced route is designed to provide an affordable alternative to driving, making it more convenient for travelers seeking to explore the scenic beauty and attractions of the Keys.
In summary, the launch of Spirit Airlines’ nonstop route between Fort Lauderdale and Key West heralds a new chapter for travel in Florida, offering an efficient and cost-effective way for tourists and residents alike to access the beautiful island destination.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Palm Beach Post: Spirit Airlines Offers Cheap Flights to Key West
- Google Search: Spirit Airlines Fort Lauderdale to Key West
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- Wikipedia: Key West
- WSVN: Spirit Airlines to Launch Nonstop Flights to Key West
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- Travel + Leisure: Spirit’s New Flight to Key West
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Airline Service
- Miami Herald: Spirit Airlines Enhances Travel Options
- Google Scholar: Airline Travel
