Spirit is being merged into Denver-based Frontier Airlines, as the two carriers announced in a blockbuster deal on Monday worth a total of $6.6 billion in cash and stocks.

The merger, if it passes regulatory approval, will create the fifth-largest airline in the United States behind the Big Four of Delta, American, United, and Southwest.

According to airline officials, this will mean more low-cost fares for more travelers to destinations in the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean. It also will mean more flights and travel time options as they have ordered 350 new jets for use.


Spirit Airlines CEO Ted Christie had this to say about the transaction:

This transaction is centered around creating an aggressive ultra-low fare competitor to serve our guests even better, expand career opportunities for our team members and increase competitive pressure, resulting in more consumer-friendly fares for the flying public.

As many people are looking to get back to traveling, more flights and options and cheaper fares sound like a great thing, but can we do something about those baggage fees, please? Now that would be all sorts of awesome.

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