Are Budget Airlines Actually Cheaper? We Did the Math, so You Don't Have To

"Low-cost carriers have to earn money too, and they often do so with significant add-on fees, which can drive that seemingly low price to new heights. Just look at Spirit Airlines as a prime example. The carrier revealed in its 2024 earnings report that its average fare revenue was $45.02 per ticket; however, it also reported earning an additional $63.44 in 'non-ticket revenue,' aka fees."

"You'll forgo better times, sometimes larger airports, loyalty benefits, and if things go awry, more options to rebook on. Travel experts caution that while the lower fares first presented by these budget carriers may be attractive, would-be passengers should carefully consider the full spectrum of costs and benefits."

Budget airlines attract travelers with low base fares, but hidden fees significantly increase final ticket costs. Spirit Airlines exemplifies this model, earning $45.02 in average fare revenue per ticket while generating an additional $63.44 in non-ticket fees. When comparing budget carriers like Allegiant, Avelo, Spirit, and Frontier against mainstream airlines such as American, Delta, and United, travelers must evaluate total costs beyond advertised prices. Budget airlines often provide less convenient flight times, smaller airports, fewer loyalty benefits, and limited rebooking options when disruptions occur. Comprehensive cost analysis reveals that budget airlines may not always deliver genuine savings.

Read at Travel + Leisure