Spirit Airlines is known for offering ultra-low-cost fares, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious travellers. However, one of the areas where Spirit differs from many traditional airlines is its seat selection policy. Unlike airlines that include seat assignments as part of the ticket price, Spirit operates with an optional seat selection system, meaning passengers may need to pay extra for preferred seating.

If you’re flying with Spirit, it’s important to understand how their seat selection works and how you can make the best choice for your needs. In this blog, we’ll break down Spirit Airlines’ seat selection policy, how to choose your seat, and tips for getting the best deal.

1. Spirit Airlines Seating Classes

offers several types of seating options, ranging from standard seats in the regular cabin to premium seating that offers Spirit Airlines Seat Selection Policy extra comfort. Here’s a quick overview of the main seating classes:

Standard Seats

Standard seats are the most basic option available on Spirit Airlines. These seats are typically narrower and have less recline than those found in more traditional cabins. They are assigned at check-in if you do not select a seat in advance. The standard seat pitch is around 28 to 29 inches, which is tighter than what you might find on other airlines, but this is part of Spirit’s strategy to offer lower fares.

Big Front Seat

For passengers who want more space, Spirit offers the Big Front Seat, which is essentially a larger, more comfortable seat located at the front of the plane. These seats offer more legroom and a wider seat compared to standard Economy seats, and they come with additional perks, such as early boarding. However, the Big Front Seat comes at an additional cost.

Exit Row Seats

Exit row seats offer more legroom due to the extra space near the emergency exits. These seats are available for an additional fee, and they are typically more expensive than standard seats. It’s important to note that passengers sitting in exit row seats must meet certain safety requirements and be physically able to assist in the event of an emergency evacuation.

2. How to Select Your Seat on Spirit Airlines

Seat selection with Spirit Airlines is not included in the ticket price, so it’s important to decide whether you want to pay for a specific seat or let the airline assign one to you. Here’s how the seat selection process works:

Step 1: Book Your Flight

Once you’ve chosen your flight, proceed with the booking process as usual. When you get to the seat selection stage, Spirit will display a seating chart showing the available seats.

Step 2: Choose Your Seat

You’ll be presented with the option to select a seat based on availability. Seats will be color-coded to indicate their status:

• Standard Seats: These are available for selection at no extra cost, but they tend to be the least desirable seats.
• Big Front Seats: These larger, more comfortable seats come at an additional cost, which will be shown at the time of selection.
• Exit Row Seats: These also come with an extra fee and are located near the emergency exits.

Step 3: Pay for Your Seat (if applicable)

Once you’ve selected your seat, Spirit will prompt you to pay any associated fees, especially if you’ve opted for Big Front Seats or exit row seating. The cost for seat selection varies depending on the route and availability, but it can range from $12 for standard seats to $100 or more for Big Front Seats on certain routes.

Step 4: Confirm Your Booking

Once you’ve selected your seat and paid the fees (if any), you can complete your booking. You’ll receive a confirmation email that includes your seat assignment. If you opted for a standard seat without paying extra, Spirit will assign your seat at check-in.

Step 5: Check-in and Finalize Your Seat Assignment

Spirit’s online check-in opens 24 hours before your flight. If you haven’t selected a seat during booking, you can do so at this time, but your options may be limited, especially for desirable seats. If you choose not to select a seat or skip the extra fees, Spirit will automatically assign a seat to you at check-in.

3. Tips for Selecting the Best Seat on Spirit Airlines

• Book Early: If you want to ensure a specific seat, it’s best to select your seat as soon as you book your flight. Waiting until check-in could leave you with limited choices.
• Consider the Big Front Seat: If you value comfort, the Big Front Seat is a great option. These seats offer extra space and are located in the front of the plane, which means you’ll also be one of the first passengers to board and deplane.
• Exit Row Seats: These seats offer the most legroom but are only available for passengers who meet specific requirements. You may need to pay extra for these, but they are a good choice if you’re looking for more space.
• Be Flexible: If you’re flying on a route with a lot of demand, such as during peak travel seasons, it’s a good idea to book your seat as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

4. What Happens if You Don’t Select a Seat?

If you choose not to select a seat in advance, Spirit Airlines will assign you a seat at check-in. This means that if you’re not picky about where you sit, you can save money by allowing Spirit to pick a seat for you. However, if you’re traveling with a companion or want a particular seat, it’s a good idea to choose your seats early to ensure you sit together and get the best available option.

5. Conclusion

Spirit Airlines Seat Selection operates on a low-cost model, which means seat selection is an additional cost for passengers who want a specific seat. While this policy might seem a bit unconventional compared to airlines that include seat assignments in the ticket price, it allows Spirit to offer lower base fares and provide flexibility for travelers who are willing to pay a little extra for the seat they prefer. Whether you opt for the standard seat, the Big Front Seat, or the exit row, understanding Spirit’s seat selection policy will help ensure a smoother and more comfortable flight experience.