A Guide to the Spirit Airlines Boarding Process: What You Need to Know

If you’ve booked a flight with Spirit Airlines, you’re probably familiar with its budget-friendly prices, but you might be wondering what to expect from the Spirit Airlines boarding process Spirit operates differently from many other airlines, particularly when it comes to boarding. Whether you're a first-time traveler or a seasoned flyer, understanding how the Spirit boarding process works can help make your experience smoother and less stressful.

In this blog, we’ll break down the Spirit Airlines boarding process, explain how it differs from other airlines, and share some tips for making the most of your flight.

How Does the Spirit Airlines Boarding Process Work?

Unlike many traditional airlines, Spirit Airlines has a unique approach to boarding its passengers. Here’s an overview of what you can expect when it’s time to board:

1. Check-In and Boarding Groups

Spirit Airlines uses boarding groups instead of boarding by seat rows. When you check in for your flight, you will be assigned to a specific boarding group, which will be printed on your boarding pass. Spirit typically has several boarding groups, and passengers board in the order of their assigned group numbers.

• Group 1: Includes Big Front Seat customers, EarlyBird Check-In passengers, and individuals with special needs, such as active-duty military or those needing assistance.
• Group 2: Passengers who have purchased certain bundles like Frill Control or The Works, which come with benefits such as priority boarding.
• Group 3 and Beyond: These are for passengers who are not in the priority groups and are generally assigned based on the time they check in.

2. EarlyBird Check-In

One way to increase your chances of boarding earlier is by purchasing EarlyBird Check-In. This service allows you to check in before the standard check-in time and increases your likelihood of being assigned to an earlier boarding group (such as Group 1). This can be especially helpful if you want to secure a spot for your carry-on luggage in the overhead bins. EarlyBird Check-In is available for an additional fee, and it’s an option worth considering for travelers who want to streamline the process.

3. Boarding Priorities

At the gate, Spirit typically boards passengers in the following order:

• Priority Boarding: This includes Big Front Seat passengers and those who purchased EarlyBird Check-In or certain packages like Frill Control or The Works.
• General Boarding: After the priority groups have boarded, passengers in Groups 2, 3, and beyond will board the plane in numerical order. This means that if you’re in a later group, you’ll likely have to wait until the earlier groups have gone before you can board.

4. No Assigned Seating, But Bin Space Is Key

Spirit Airlines follows a free seating policy, which means you are not assigned a specific seat when you purchase a standard ticket. Boarding early gives you a better chance of securing a good seat, particularly in terms of overhead bin space. Spirit’s planes are often packed, and overhead bin space can fill up quickly. If you have a carry-on bag, it’s a good idea to board earlier to ensure your bag can be stored in the overhead bin.

5. The Spirit Boarding Process for Passengers with Special Needs

Spirit Airlines does provide priority boarding for passengers who need extra assistance. This includes individuals with disabilities, as well as those traveling with infants or small children. Passengers who are eligible for special assistance should approach the gate agent prior to the boarding process to ensure they are placed in the correct boarding group.

Spirit Airlines Boarding Process Tips: How to Make the Most of It

1. Arrive Early

Even if you have an earlier boarding group, it’s always a good idea to arrive at the gate early. The boarding process can sometimes be chaotic, and you’ll want to make sure you’re in the right place when your group is called. Arriving early also gives you time to find your seat and get situated without feeling rushed.

2. Consider Upgrading to EarlyBird Check-In

If you're planning to travel with carry-on luggage or want to ensure a smoother experience, purchasing EarlyBird Check-In is a great option. Not only will it increase your chances of securing overhead bin space, but it will also reduce the stress of rushing to the gate to check in at the last minute.

3. Travel Light

If you’re in a later boarding group and don’t have a lot of carry-on luggage, you can avoid worrying about overhead bin space by traveling light. Keeping your carry-on small and manageable allows you to easily stow your items under the seat in front of you, reducing the stress of trying to find available bin space.

4. Know What to Expect With Spirit’s Seating Policy

While Spirit’s free seating policy means you’re not assigned a specific seat, it also means that you’ll be sitting wherever there’s an open seat when you board. Some passengers prefer to board earlier to snag a seat near the front of the plane or by the window, while others may not mind where they sit as long as they can get settled quickly.

5. Be Prepared for the “Cattle Call” Boarding Process

Spirit Airlines, being a budget airline, often operates with full flights. The boarding process can feel like a bit of a “cattle call” with crowds of passengers vying for the best seats and overhead bin space. However, staying patient and organized will make the experience smoother. If you're in a later group, just be aware that it may take a little longer to board.