These are the 5 best low-cost US airlines now that Spirit Airlines has closed

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The post-Spirit era of American aviation has officially begun. On May 2, 2026After 34 years of shaking up the industry, Spirit Airlines closed its doors for good. The yellow planes are grounded, leaving a huge void in the budget travel market.

Specifically, more than 1.6 million domestic seats disappeared overnight.

For those of us who relied on those “bare fares” to get around, the landscape has changed. The “Spirit Effect” – where traditional airlines were forced to lower prices to compete – is fading, and fares are already rising in major hubs like Fort Lauderdale and Las Vegas.

But don’t panic yet. While the pioneer of the ultra-cheap model is no more, several other airlines have stepped up with upgraded cabins, new loyalty benefits and a much better reliability record.

These are the best low-cost airlines you can book in 2026.

1. Frontier Airlines: the new ULCC leader

With Spirit out of the picture, Frontier has officially claimed the throne as the top budget carrier in the US. However, they are not the Frontier you remember. In 2026, the airline turned around “Clear price in advance,” moving away from the nickel and dime reputation of the past.

• The “First Seats” upgrade: Frontier is currently being rolled out 2×2 “First seats” in the front of their planes to compete with Spirit’s famous Big Front Seat.
• The business bundle: This is the real game changer for 2026. Their new Business Bundle includes two £50 checked bags, priority boarding and a “UpFront Plus” seat with a guaranteed empty middle seat.
• Insider tip: If you are a frequent flyer, you can use the Go Wild! Passage is still the best value for flexible travelers, offering unlimited flights for a flat annual fee (currently around $1,999).

2. Breeze Airways: The Premium Disruptor

Founded by David Neeleman (the man who founded JetBlue), Breeze is the fastest growing airline of 2026 for good reason. They focus on “long, thin” routes, connecting secondary cities like Louisville and Hartford directly to the West Coast, without any stops.

• The 220 experience: Breeze flies the Airbus A220with the product “Breeze Ascent”. It’s essentially a first class seat with a huge backrest and free snacks at a fraction of the cost of an older carrier.
• Lighthearted rewards: The 2026 loyalty overhaul introduced the “Buddy discount.” High-tier “Breezy Club” members now get a 100% multi-way discount for a companion, making it a favorite for couples and families.
• The technical advantage: Unlike the budget airlines of yesteryear, Breeze offers fast WiFi that really works, and it’s free for all elite reward members.

3. Southwest Airlines: the modern pivot

Southwest underwent its biggest identity change in 55 years in January. They officially ended the era of ‘open seating’ and moved to assigned seating to better compete with the big boys.

• The era of baggage fees: This is the part that hurts: Southwest no longer flies all bags for free. Beginning April 9, 2026, travelers will be charged “Basic Bag” rates $45 for the first checked bag.
• The loophole: If you hold one Rapid Rewards Credit Cardyou still get your first bag free for yourself and up to eight companions. This has become the essential “safety net” for Southwest fans this year.
• Why even books? They still have the best change-free policy in the industry. If your plans are 50/50, Southwest is the only low-cost airline that won’t penalize you for a last-minute swap.

4. Avelo Airlines: the secondary hub king

Avelo has found its niche by dominating airports that all others ignored. By out places like New Haven (HVN) and the newly opened base McKinney National (TKI) in North Texas they save you the two-hour trip to a major international hub.

• Status Agreement: In a smart move following the closure of Spirit, Avelo is currently offering a status agreement for former Spirit Saver$ Club members. If you had the yellow card, you can get 12 months of Avelo PLUS for free.
• The “TRYAVELO” code: Use promotional code TRYAVELO through November 2026 for a huge discount on your first base fare as part of their campaign to win stranded Spirit flyers.

5. The new “Super-Leisure” airline: Allegiant & Sun Country

From May 13, 2026Allegiant and Sun Country have officially merged. While they are still flying under separate brands for now, they have integrated their rescue fares and loyalty programs.

• The advantage: By combining Sun Country’s freight and charter strength with Allegiant’s massive vacation network, the “new” airline will be more resilient to fuel price spikes. You can now earn points on an Allegiant flight to Vegas and spend them on a Sun Country flight to the Caribbean.

Reality check 2026: price volatility

Spirit’s departure has removed the main source of downward pressure on US airfares. Aviation analysts see a 15% to 20% peak in prices on routes where Spirit was the only competition.

Pro Tip for 2026: Fuel prices are currently at record highs ($4.51 per gallon). This means that ‘rescue rates’ (usually limited to €99 – €299) are your best friend if you get caught during the liquidation. If you book new, book at least 21 days out– the “last-minute budget deal” is effectively dead for now.

Tyler Fox

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Tyler is our editor-in-chief and writer. After years of reading, writing, and obsessing about travel (while traveling as often as possible, of course!), he wants to give readers the best and most balanced experience possible when exploring the site.