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3 Airlines Offering Spirit-Like Fares in 2026: Budget Travel Is Still Alive on the Florida Suncoast

| Suncoast Post Staff |

For years, travelers looking for the absolute lowest airfare often turned to Spirit Airlines. While Spirit helped redefine ultra-low-cost travel in America, changing market conditions, route adjustments, and rising operating costs have many travelers asking a simple question:

If I want cheap flights, where should I look now?

The good news is that affordable air travel is far from dead. In fact, three airlines continue to offer some of the lowest fares available today, often making it possible to fly across the country for less than the cost of a tank of gas. For readers following the shifting low-cost airline market, Suncoast Post recently covered what Florida travelers need to know after Spirit Airlines shut down.

Frontier Airlines: The Closest Thing to Classic Spirit

If you’re searching for the airline that most closely resembles Spirit’s traditional ultra-low-cost model, Frontier is probably your best bet.

Frontier continues to market itself as the “Home of Low Fares Done Right,” offering extremely low base fares while charging separately for optional services such as carry-on bags, checked luggage, seat assignments, and priority boarding. Every ticket includes a personal item, but passengers pay extra for most other amenities.

For travelers willing to travel light and skip the extras, Frontier frequently offers some of the cheapest fares in North America. The airline has also expanded its route network and continues to promote flexible travel options through programs such as its GoWild Pass.

Best for: Travelers whose top priority is paying the lowest possible fare.

Allegiant Air: Florida’s Budget Airline Favorite

Allegiant has built a loyal following by doing something many larger airlines don’t: connecting smaller cities directly to vacation destinations.

Rather than relying heavily on major airline hubs, Allegiant focuses on nonstop flights between regional airports and popular leisure destinations, particularly throughout Florida, Las Vegas, and other vacation markets. The airline currently serves more than 110 U.S. cities and continues to expand its Florida footprint.

This strategy often saves travelers both money and time because they can avoid long layovers and crowded hub airports.

Allegiant recently announced additional nonstop routes into Florida and continues to position itself as one of America’s leading leisure-focused airlines. The company is also making headlines in 2026 following its acquisition of Sun Country Airlines, a move expected to create one of the nation’s largest leisure-travel airline networks. Suncoast Post has also reported on how Allegiant Air is expanding across Florida, along with recent route cuts and what they mean for Suncoast travelers.

For Florida Suncoast residents, Allegiant remains particularly attractive because of its extensive service at airports such as Sarasota Bradenton International Airport, St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport, and Punta Gorda Airport.

Best for: Vacation travelers who want nonstop service from smaller airports.

Breeze Airways: The New Budget Airline Winning Fans

Breeze Airways may be the newest name on this list, but it has quickly become one of the fastest-growing airlines in America.

Founded by aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, Breeze was created to serve routes that major airlines had abandoned or ignored. The carrier focuses heavily on connecting midsize and underserved cities with convenient nonstop service.

Today, Breeze serves more than 80 cities and continues to add new destinations throughout the United States, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The airline has also expanded service from Florida airports, including Tampa, Orlando, Fort Myers, and other key markets.

What makes Breeze different is its approach to customer experience. While fares remain competitive with many ultra-low-cost carriers, passengers often praise the airline’s newer aircraft, more comfortable seating, and upgraded fare options that allow travelers to customize their experience.

Industry observers have noted that Breeze has successfully positioned itself between traditional budget airlines and full-service carriers, offering travelers more comfort without dramatically increasing ticket prices.

Best for: Travelers seeking low fares without sacrificing comfort.

The Hidden Cost of Cheap Airfare

One important reminder for travelers: the cheapest advertised fare is rarely the final price.

Most ultra-low-cost airlines generate additional revenue through optional fees for:

  • Carry-on bags
  • Checked luggage
  • Seat assignments
  • Priority boarding
  • Flight changes
  • In-flight purchases

Savvy travelers can still save substantial money by understanding these fees and booking accordingly. In many cases, packing only a personal item can dramatically reduce travel costs.

The Bottom Line

While the golden age of $19 flights may not be as common as it once was, affordable airfare remains available for travelers who know where to look.

Frontier remains the pure ultra-low-cost option. Allegiant continues to dominate leisure routes and smaller airports. Breeze has emerged as the industry’s rising star, offering a blend of low fares and added comfort.

For Florida Suncoast travelers, all three airlines provide opportunities to reach destinations across the country without breaking the family travel budget. Sarasota Bradenton International Airport has been a major part of that local travel story, with Suncoast Post tracking the explosive growth of SRQ as more routes and carriers enter the market.

The lesson is simple: budget travel isn’t gone – it has simply evolved. And for flexible travelers willing to pack light and shop smart, some remarkably cheap flights are still taking off every day.

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