Airline adds direct flights to East Coast, Midwest hubs

TAMPA — Spirit Airlines has added daily nonstop service from Tampa International Airport to New York’s LaGuardia Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and Indianapolis International Airport.

The Miramar-based airline also recently launched service to Nashville International Airport. Spirit, according to a press release, now serves 24 destinations from Tampa.

“We are thrilled to bring even more of our Spirit Signature Service, brand new Airbus jets, and industry-leading low fares to Tampa,” states Matt Klein, the airline’s senior vice president and chief commercial officer, in the release. “Tampa is one of the largest and most popular destinations in our network, but it is also a rapidly growing community with a demand for more affordable flight options. As America’s fastest-growing airline, we know this new service will allow more families to reconnect with loved ones or plan that much-needed winter getaway.”

According to the release, Spirit’s Tampa-based flights have increased by 22%, year-over-year, in its 2019 fiscal year. The carrier offered 14,000 flights and 2.5 million seats.

“Tampa International Airport served a record 22.2 million passengers for fiscal year 2019 and Spirit’s rapid expansion is an important part of that story,” states Chris Minner, executive vice president of marketing at Tampa International Airport. “Spirit accounted for nearly 40% of our total passenger growth this past fiscal year — more than any other carrier. We are grateful for Spirit’s commitment to the Tampa Bay region and we look forward to working together for many years to come.”

Spirit Airlines reported gross revenue of $3.32 billion in 2018, up from $2.64 billion in 2017.