Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines to Merge

Spirit Airlines, Inc. and Frontier Group Holdings, Inc. announced a definitive merger agreement under which the companies will combine, creating America’s fifth largest airline in the U.S. in a $6.6 billion deal.

The merger is expected to close in the second half of 2022, subject to satisfaction of customary closing conditions, including the completion of the regulatory review process and approval by Spirit stockholders.

Together, Frontier and Spirit expect to change the industry for the benefit of consumers, bringing more ultra-low fares to more travelers in more destinations across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean, including major cities and underserved communities. 

“We are thrilled to join forces with Frontier to further democratize air travel,” said Ted Christie, president and CEO of Spirit. “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. We look forward to uniting our talented teams to shake up the airline industry while also continuing our commitment to excellent guest service.”

“Together, Frontier and Spirit will be America’s Greenest Airline and deliver more ultra-low fares to more people in more places,” said Barry Biffle, president and CEO, Frontier. “I couldn’t be more excited for our team members, customers, partners, the communities we serve, and our shareholders.”

With the new merger, consumers are expected to reap the benefits. The combined airline plans to: 

• Deliver $1 billion in annual consumer savings.
• Offer more than 1,000 daily flights to over 145 destinations in 19 countries, across complementary networks.
• Expand with more than 350 aircraft on order to deliver more ultra-low fares.
• Increase access to ultra-low fares by adding new routes to underserved communities across the United States, Latin America, and the Caribbean.
• Deliver even more reliable service through a variety of operational efficiencies.
• Expand frequent flyer and membership offerings.