Imagine standing at the airport gate, feeling the thrill of a new adventure. You want your journey to be perfect and stress-free. Choosing the right flight can make your trip unforgettable.

Choosing the best carrier for your vacation is important. It’s not just about finding a seat; it’s about the care you receive. This indigo vs vistara comparison helps you find the right match for your next big trip.

Your choice depends on what you value most in the sky. You might want a quick ride or a more indulgent experience with extra perks. Every traveler has unique needs when they head to the runway.

We will look at seat comfort, meal quality, and overall value to guide your decision. Let’s explore the features that make these airlines stand out. You deserve a flight that feels as good as the destination itself.

Understanding Indigo and Vistara: A Quick Overview

When choosing flights, knowing about Indigo and Vistara is key. Both are top names in India’s aviation world. They’re known for great service and being on time.

About Indigo Airlines

Indigo Airlines is a big name in India, famous for being on time and efficient. It started in 2006 and quickly became a favorite among travelers.

It’s all about reliable and cheap flights for Indigo. Their young fleet helps them save on maintenance costs. This makes flying with them a smooth ride.

About Vistara Airlines

Vistara Airlines is a bit newer, starting in 2013 with Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines. It’s known for its top-notch service and comfy flights.

Vistara offers modern planes and great in-flight services. It caters to all kinds of travelers, aiming to make every flight better.

Airline	Established	Fleet Size	Notable Features
Indigo Airlines	2006	Over 280 aircraft	Punctuality, Efficient Service
Vistara Airlines	2013	Around 50 aircraft	Premium Service, Modern Fleet

Indigo shines in being on time, while Vistara offers a luxury flying experience. Your choice depends on what matters most to you.

Indigo vs Vistara: Head-to-Head Comparison

To make an informed decision, let’s compare Indigo and Vistara across various aspects. Both airlines have their strengths and weaknesses. Understanding these differences is key to choosing the right airline for your needs.

Fleet and Aircraft Quality

Indigo operates a fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft, known for their efficiency and reliability. Vistara, on the other hand, operates a mix of Airbus A320 and Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. This offers a more varied flying experience. The quality of the fleet can significantly impact your travel experience, with newer aircraft typically offering better comfort and amenities.

Vistara’s inclusion of the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner in its fleet is a significant advantage for long-haul flights. It provides passengers with a more modern and comfortable flying experience.

Route Networks and Connectivity

Both Indigo and Vistara have extensive route networks within India and internationally. However, their focus differs slightly. Indigo is known for its strong presence in the Indian domestic market. Vistara offers a significant number of international routes, enhancing its appeal to travelers looking for global connectivity.

Airline	Domestic Routes	International Routes
Indigo	Extensive network within India	Limited international presence
Vistara	Strong domestic network	Significant international routes

In-Flight Services and Amenities

In-flight services can greatly impact your travel experience. Let’s dive into the specifics.

Seat Comfort and Configuration

Vistara is often praised for its comfortable seating, especially in its premium cabins. Indigo, while efficient, is generally considered to offer more basic seating.

Food and Beverage Options

Vistara is known for its high-quality food and beverage options, catering to a wide range of tastes. Indigo, while improving its offerings, still lags behind in this aspect.

Entertainment and Wi-Fi

Vistara offers a robust in-flight entertainment system with a variety of movies, TV shows, and music. Indigo has more limited entertainment options but is working on enhancing this aspect of its service.

As one user noted, “Vistara is full service, so marginally better” than Indigo, which is described as “super efficient.” Another user highlighted Indigo’s excellent airport operations and quick turnaround times. These insights highlight the different strengths of each airline.

Pricing and Value for Money

When deciding between Indigo and Vistara, pricing is key. Both airlines have different pricing strategies for different travelers.

Indigo is known for being more budget-friendly, with slightly cheaper tickets than Vistara. But, there’s more to value than just price.

Ticket Prices: Budget vs Premium

Vistara’s Premium Economy offers more comfort for travelers. Indigo focuses on affordable, basic travel. Vistara’s premium options come at a higher cost but provide a better experience.

The table below shows the main differences in ticket prices and services between Indigo and Vistara:

Airline	Economy Class	Premium Economy
Indigo	Budget-friendly, basic amenities	Not available
Vistara	Competitive pricing, standard amenities	Available, with enhanced amenities

Loyalty Programs and Rewards

Both airlines have loyalty programs for frequent flyers. Earning VS tier points on Indigo flights marketed as VS is crucial for those who travel often.

Vistara’s loyalty program rewards its premium service. Indigo’s program is simple and easy to use.

When choosing between Indigo and Vistara, think about more than just ticket price. Consider the value of their loyalty programs and overall travel experience.

Customer Satisfaction and Reliability

Choosing between Indigo and Vistara means looking at their customer satisfaction and reliability. These factors greatly affect your travel experience. They include on-time performance, customer service quality, and how well they handle baggage.

On-Time Performance

Being on time is key to customer happiness. Indigo is known for being punctual, with many flights leaving and arriving on schedule. Yet, some travelers have faced delays. Vistara also has a good record for being on time, with many passengers praising its reliability.

One traveler said Vistara’s flight was “marginally nicer.” They also noted how well the airline handled cancellations and rescheduling.

Customer Service Quality

Good customer service is crucial. Indigo has gotten mixed reviews, with some liking the cabin cleaning and quick turnaround. Others have complained about unexpected fees. Vistara, however, is known for its excellent customer service, with passengers praising the staff’s attentiveness.

Baggage Policies and Handling

Baggage policies and handling are important too. Both Indigo and Vistara have rules for checked and carry-on baggage, with different fees. Passengers have had mixed experiences with both airlines, with some facing delays or lost luggage.

It’s important to check each airline’s baggage policy before flying. This way, you can avoid unexpected fees or problems.

Conclusion

The comparison between Indigo and Vistara shows each airline’s strengths and weaknesses. Your priorities will help you choose.

If saving money is key, Indigo’s low prices might win you over. But, if you want luxury and comfort, Vistara is the better choice.

In our review, we looked at fleet quality, routes, in-flight services, prices, and customer satisfaction. We found that both airlines meet different traveler needs.

Indigo is great for those watching their budget and has a wide range of routes. Vistara, however, offers a top-notch flying experience. Your choice depends on what you value most.

By understanding the main points from our comparison, you can pick the airline that fits your travel style and needs.

FAQ

Understanding Indigo and Vistara: A Quick Overview

### About Indigo AirlinesIndigo is India’s largest and most popular low-cost carrier. It’s known for being on time and offering affordable service. With a large fleet of Airbus A320 and A321 planes, Indigo connects you to many places in India and abroad.### About Vistara AirlinesVistara is a joint venture between Tata Sons and Singapore Airlines. It offers a premium service experience. Vistara has three classes: Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class. They aim to provide high-quality service and comfort.

Indigo vs Vistara: Head-to-Head Comparison

### Fleet and Aircraft QualityIndigo has a young, efficient fleet of Airbus A320neo and A321neo planes. Vistara has a more diverse fleet, including the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for long-haul flights. Indigo’s cabins are clean, while Vistara offers more comfort and luxury.### Route Networks and ConnectivityIndigo has a dense domestic route network, offering many flights. Vistara is expanding but focuses on major cities and international hubs.### In-Flight Services and AmenitiesIndigo offers a “no-frills” experience where you can buy food and drinks. Vistara provides complimentary meals and entertainment on many flights, ensuring a comfortable journey.

Pricing and Value for Money

### Ticket Prices: Budget vs PremiumIndigo is great for budget travelers with competitive prices. Vistara’s prices are higher but include meals and checked baggage. The added comfort of Vistara may be worth the extra cost for some.### Loyalty Programs and RewardsBoth airlines offer rewards programs. Indigo’s 6E Rewards program lets you earn points on everyday spends. Vistara’s Club Vistara offers tier-based benefits like lounge access and extra baggage allowance.

Customer Satisfaction and Reliability

### On-Time PerformanceIndigo is known for its punctuality. If being on time is crucial, Indigo is a top choice. Vistara also has a strong record but may vary slightly due to its full-service model.### Customer Service QualityVistara often scores higher in customer satisfaction surveys. They are known for their warm crew, quality food, and cabin ambiance. Indigo’s service is professional but more functional.### Baggage Policies and HandlingIndigo allows 15kg for domestic flights. Vistara offers more weight in Premium Economy and Business Class. Both airlines have modern baggage handling systems.

Conclusion

The choice between Indigo and Vistara depends on your priorities. Indigo is ideal for those seeking low fares and frequent flights. Vistara offers a superior experience with complimentary meals and extra legroom. Both airlines are top choices for modern travelers.

Is Indigo or Vistara better for a budget-conscious traveler?

Indigo is better for budget travelers. It offers competitive prices and “unbundled” fares. Vistara’s prices are higher but include meals and checked baggage.

Do I get free food on a Vistara flight compared to an Indigo flight?

Yes, Vistara includes meals in your ticket price. Indigo does not include food but offers snacks for purchase.

How do the in-flight amenities compare between the two airlines?

Vistara offers more amenities, including personal entertainment screens. Indigo focuses on a “no-frills” model but provides a clean cabin environment.

Which airline has a more extensive domestic route network?

Indigo has a larger domestic route network than Vistara. Indigo connects more Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities in India.

Is there a significant difference in customer satisfaction regarding on-time performance?

Indigo is known for its punctuality. While Vistara is reliable, Indigo’s low-cost model makes it slightly more consistent.

Can I use a loyalty program for my flights with these airlines?

Yes, both airlines have loyalty programs. Vistara’s Club Vistara offers points for seat upgrades and flights. Indigo’s 6E Rewards program lets you earn points on flights and everyday purchases.

What should I know about the fleet differences in this comparison?

Fleet age is important. Indigo has a uniform fleet of Airbus planes. Vistara uses Airbus for domestic flights but has Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners for international routes.

Which airline offers better services for international travel?

Vistara is preferred for long-haul international flights with its multi-class cabins. Indigo is great for short-haul international flights, focusing on affordability and frequency.

Imagine the soft sand and warm sun on your skin. You’ve dreamed of this escape for months. Now, it’s time for a special trip.

Planning a vacation is exciting, but it’s filled with tough choices. The way you arrive sets the mood for your stay. You want it to be stress-free and comfortable.

Choosing the right flight provider is key. One offers luxury with island vibes, while the other is practical. Both meet different needs and preferences.

We aim to help you choose based on your goals and budget. This comparison covers seat space to baggage fees for your next adventure. We make booking easy for you.

Key Takeaways:

• Your flight provider choice affects your vacation’s comfort and cost.
• Looking at baggage policies and seating options helps find the best value for your trip.

What You Need to Know About These Two Airlines

To make a smart choice, it’s important to know what makes Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines different. Each airline has its own strengths and meets different travel needs.

Hawaiian Airlines: The Island Specialist

Hawaiian Airlines is famous for its island-hopping flights and focus on Hawaiian culture. With over 90 years of history, it offers a special travel experience, especially for those visiting Hawaii. Its fleet includes Airbus A321neo and A330 planes, making your journey comfortable to various places.

Southwest Airlines: The Mainland Favorite

Southwest Airlines is a top choice for mainland travelers because of its friendly policies and good prices. It’s known for being affordable, with a wide network across the U.S. and beyond. Its Boeing 737 fleet is praised for its flexible baggage policy and excellent customer service.

Key Differences at a Glance

To quickly see the main differences between Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines, here’s a comparison table:

Feature	Hawaiian Airlines	Southwest Airlines
Fleet	Airbus A321neo, A330	Boeing 737
Baggage Policy	Checked bags fee applies	2 free checked bags
Route Network	Focus on Hawaii and Pacific routes	Extensive U.S. and some international routes

Knowing these differences helps you pick the airline that fits your travel plans and preferences best.

Route Networks and Destinations Compared

Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines have different routes for various travel needs.

Where Hawaiian Airlines Flies

Hawaiian Airlines is famous for its flights between Hawaii’s islands.

Interisland Routes

It connects major islands like Oahu, Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island.

Mainland and International Destinations

It also flies to the mainland U.S. and places like Japan, South Korea, and New Zealand.

Southwest Airlines Coverage Area

Southwest Airlines covers a wide area in the U.S.

Domestic Network

It has a strong presence in the mainland U.S. and connects many cities.

Hawaii Service

Southwest has started flying to Hawaii, offering another option for island trips.

Best Airline for Your Destination

Choosing between Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines depends on where you’re going.

Pricing and Overall Value

The cost of your flight is key to your travel plans. It’s important to compare the prices of Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest.

Hawaiian Airlines Fare Classes

Hawaiian Airlines has different fare classes for various needs. You can choose from Basic Economy to First Class. Each class offers unique amenities and rules.

For short trips with little luggage, Basic Economy is great. First Class provides luxury services for a premium experience.

Southwest Airlines Pricing Model

Southwest Airlines is known for its clear and competitive prices. It has fare types like Wanna Get Away, Anytime, and Business Select. Each offers different perks and flexibility.

Comparing Total Trip Costs

When looking at total trip costs, remember to check for extra fees. Hawaiian Airlines charges for checked bags on most fares. Southwest, however, lets you have two free checked bags on all fares.

This difference can greatly affect the cost, especially for those with lots of bags.

By looking at both airlines’ fare structures and extra costs, you can choose what fits your travel needs and budget best.

Baggage Policies: Hawaiian Airlines vs Southwest

Knowing the baggage rules of Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines can really affect your travel budget. Both airlines handle baggage differently. This can be a big factor for many travelers.

Carry-On Allowances

Hawaiian Airlines lets you bring one carry-on bag and one personal item. Southwest Airlines also allows one carry-on bag and one personal item. But, they have more flexible size rules.

Checked Baggage Fees and Limits

Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines have different rules for checked bags. Hawaiian Airlines charges for checked bags. On the other hand, Southwest lets you have two free checked bags per passenger.

Hawaiian Airlines Checked Bag Policy

Hawaiian Airlines starts charging $30 for the first checked bag. But, elite members and some credit card holders might get free bags or pay less.

Southwest Airlines Checked Bag Policy

Southwest Airlines lets you have two free checked bags. This makes it a great choice for those with lots of luggage.

Special Items and Equipment

Both airlines have rules for special items like bicycles, surfboards, and musical instruments. Hawaiian Airlines charges for these items. Southwest has specific rules and fees too.

Winner for Baggage Value

If you have lots of bags, Southwest Airlines is cheaper because it lets you have two free checked bags. But, Hawaiian Airlines has perks for its elite members and some credit card holders. These can help reduce baggage fees.

Onboard Experience and Amenities

Choosing between Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines means thinking about the flight experience. Your comfort and fun during the flight greatly affect your trip.

Seat Comfort and Legroom

Hawaiian Airlines has traditional seats with varying legroom. Southwest Airlines lets you pick your seat when you board. You can pay more for a better seat.

In-Flight Entertainment Systems

Hawaiian Airlines has a modern entertainment system with lots of movies, TV shows, and music. Southwest Airlines offers free Wi-Fi for streaming on your device.

Complimentary Food and Drinks

The way each airline serves food and drinks is different.

Hawaiian Airlines Meal Service

Hawaiian Airlines gives free meals on long flights. You get to try local Hawaiian dishes.

Southwest Airlines Snacks and Beverages

Southwest Airlines sells snacks and drinks. They don’t give free meals, but you can buy food and drinks.

Onboard Amenity	Hawaiian Airlines	Southwest Airlines
Complimentary Meals	Yes, on longer flights	No
In-Flight Entertainment	Modern entertainment system	Free Wi-Fi for streaming
Seat Selection	Assigned seating	Open seating

When picking between Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines, think about what you want. Do you like local food or choosing your seat? Each airline has its own perks.

Frequent Flyer Programs Worth Joining

Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines have loyalty programs with unique benefits. They cater to different types of travelers.

Both airlines reward their loyal customers. But, their programs have different structures and advantages.

HawaiianMiles Program Benefits

HawaiianMiles is great for those who often fly to Hawaii or with partner airlines.

Members earn miles on Hawaiian Airlines, partner airlines, and through other activities. This includes using specific credit cards.

Southwest Rapid Rewards Advantages

Southwest Airlines’ Rapid Rewards program is flexible. It has no blackout dates, appealing to many travelers.

Members earn points on Southwest Airlines flights and through partner activities. They can redeem points for flights without blackout dates.

Earning and Redeeming Points

Earning and redeeming points or miles is key in any frequent flyer program.

HawaiianMiles members earn miles by distance flown and fare paid. Southwest Rapid Rewards members earn points by fare paid.

Program Features	HawaiianMiles	Southwest Rapid Rewards
Earning Basis	Distance flown and fare paid	Fare paid
Redeeming Options	Flights on Hawaiian and partner airlines	Flights on Southwest Airlines
Blackout Dates	Yes, on some awards	No

Which Program Fits Your Travel Style?

Choosing between HawaiianMiles and Southwest Rapid Rewards depends on your travel habits.

If you often fly to Hawaii or with partner airlines, HawaiianMiles is better.

If you prefer flexibility and flying with Southwest Airlines, Rapid Rewards is more suitable.

Reliability and Customer Service

When choosing between Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest, knowing about their reliability and service is key. Both airlines stand out in these areas, affecting your travel experience greatly.

On-Time Performance Records

Hawaiian Airlines is reliable, especially for flights within Hawaii. It has a strong record of being on time. Southwest also has a good record, but it can change based on the route and other factors.

Airline	On-Time Arrival Rate	Cancellation Rate
Hawaiian Airlines	85%	1.5%
Southwest Airlines	83%	2.1%

Customer Satisfaction Scores

Southwest Airlines is loved for its friendly staff and easy policies. Hawaiian Airlines also gets high marks, especially for its service in Hawaii.

Flight Changes and Cancellation Flexibility

Southwest Airlines is great for changing or canceling flights without extra fees. Hawaiian Airlines also offers flexibility, but it depends on your ticket type and other details.

How Each Airline Handles Problems

Both airlines have ways to deal with customer complaints. Hawaiian Airlines is known for its personal touch in solving issues. Southwest is praised for its quick action in fixing problems.

Conclusion

When choosing between Hawaiian Airlines and Southwest Airlines, think about what’s most important to you. The Hawaiian vs Southwest comparison shows each airline’s unique strengths.

Hawaiian Airlines offers a special island culture experience. It has many routes within Hawaii and to major U.S. cities. If you’re going to or from Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines is your top choice.

Southwest Airlines is known for its customer-friendly policies. It offers free checked bags and flexible change policies. This makes it perfect for travelers who value comfort and flexibility.

Your choice should match your travel needs and preferences. Whether you prefer Hawaiian Airlines’ specialized service or Southwest Airlines’ flexible approach, you can make a smart choice. This will improve your travel experience.

Consider route networks, pricing, baggage policies, and onboard experiences. This will help you pick the airline that suits your travel style best.

FAQ

Is Hawaiian Airlines better than Southwest for interisland travel?

It depends on your schedule. Hawaiian Airlines offers more frequent flights between the islands, but Southwest often provides lower fares and includes two free checked bags, which is rare for short flights.

Do you get free food on Southwest Airlines flights to Hawaii?

No, Southwest does not serve full meals. They provide complimentary snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. In contrast, any Hawaiian Airlines review will highlight that they serve a free hot meal on transpacific routes.

How do Hawaiian Airlines routes compare to Southwest for East Coast travelers?

Hawaiian Airlines is generally better for the East Coast as they offer non-stop service from cities like New York and Boston. Southwest Airlines destinations are primarily reached via a connection on the West Coast.

Is there an airline comparison for baggage fees between these two?

Yes, Southwest Airlines allows two free checked bags per person. Hawaiian Airlines charges for checked bags unless you have specific elite status or a co-branded credit card.

Which airline has better in-flight entertainment, Hawaiian or Southwest?

Hawaiian Airlines often features seatback screens on their larger aircraft. Southwest provides free streaming entertainment, but you must use your own device (phone or tablet) to watch it.

Are there more Southwest Airlines destinations in Hawaii now?

Yes, Southwest has significantly expanded and now flies into Honolulu (Oahu), Kahului (Maui), Lihue (Kauai), and both Kona and Hilo on the Big Island.

Does a Southwest Airlines review typically mention assigned seating?

No, because Southwest uses an open seating policy. You are assigned a boarding group and position, and then you choose any available seat once you get on the plane. Hawaiian Airlines uses traditional assigned seating.

Which loyalty program is better in the Hawaiian vs Southwest debate?

HawaiianMiles is excellent for those who specifically travel to Hawaii often. Southwest Rapid Rewards is highly valued for its lack of blackout dates and ease of use across their entire domestic network.

When you’re comparing Allegiant Air vs Spirit, you’re looking at two airlines that rank near the bottom in customer satisfaction—88th and 87th out of 90 airlines, respectively. Although both offer rock-bottom fares, the similarities largely end there. In light of Spirit’s November 2024 bankruptcy filing after losing over $2.5 billion since 2020, the budget airline landscape has shifted considerably. The debate often extends to Spirit vs Frontier comparisons as well, since all three carriers compete in the ultra-low-cost space. In reality, choosing between these airlines requires looking beyond base ticket prices to understand their route networks, fee structures, and overall value. We’ll break down everything you need to know about both carriers to help you decide which budget airline makes sense for your travel plans in 2026.

Route Networks and Destinations

_{Image Source: Allegiant}

Allegiant’s Regional Airport Focus

Allegiant operates a fleet of 111 aircraft serving 119 destinations within the United States. The airline deliberately targets smaller regional airports, flying routes only a few times per week based on expected passenger demand. This approach means you’ll find Allegiant connecting places like Colorado Springs to Phoenix-Mesa or Chattanooga to Fort Myers rather than competing on busy routes between major cities. Allegiant maintains five primary hubs: Orlando, St. Pete/Clearwater, Fort Myers, Las Vegas, and Phoenix.

Spirit’s Major Hub Strategy

Spirit takes a different approach with 157 aircraft shuttling travelers on over 500 daily flights. The airline operates crew bases at Atlanta, Chicago-O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Houston-Intercontinental, Las Vegas, Miami, Newark, and Orlando. Whereas Allegiant focuses on infrequent regional service, Spirit runs a point-to-point network system without traditional hub operations, concentrating primarily on the Eastern United States.

Coverage Area: Where Each Airline Flies in 2026

Spirit serves approximately 75 destinations throughout Central America, the Caribbean, South America, and the United States. The airline reaches 60 domestic destinations and 25 international locations across 18 countries. Allegiant announced 30 new nonstop routes in early 2026, adding four new markets: La Crosse, Wisconsin; Trenton, New Jersey; Columbia, Missouri; and Philadelphia. This expansion brings Allegiant’s network to over 650 routes when combined with Sun Country Airlines.

International vs Domestic Service Options

Allegiant does not currently offer scheduled international flights beyond the United States, though it pilots charter flights to Canada and Mexico seasonally. Spirit, in contrast, flies as far as Lima, Peru, serving destinations in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador, Colombia, and Venezuela. Spirit also reaches Caribbean islands including Aruba, Saint Maarten, Jamaica, Haiti, and the Dominican Republic.

Pricing Structure and Base Fares

Ticket Prices: Revenue Per Mile Comparison

Spirit ranks as the second cheapest carrier in the United States with a revenue per available seat mile of $0.11, trailing only Frontier at $0.10. Allegiant sits slightly higher at $0.13 per seat mile. This translates to a $0.02 difference per mile flown between the two carriers. In other words, Spirit typically charges less per mile than Allegiant, though both fall well below legacy carriers. When comparing spirit vs frontier, Frontier edges out Spirit by a single cent per mile.

Allegiant’s Vacation Package Pricing

Allegiant built its business model around vacation packages that bundle flights with hotel stays. The airline ventured into hospitality by constructing the Sunseeker Resort in Charlotte Harbor, Florida, featuring 785 rooms, pools, golf, and a marina. The resort opened in 2023, with Allegiant aiming to capture the package holiday market through its website. However, the property struggled with occupancy and was often half-empty during peak February season.

Spirit’s Bare Fare Model Explained

Spirit pioneered the unbundled pricing approach, charging only for your seat and one personal item in its base Bare Fare. The airline now offers four fare tiers: Go (basic economy with no carry-on), Go Savvy (includes standard seat and carry-on), Go Comfy (adds extra-space seating and snacks), and Go Big (Big Front Seat with premium amenities). Spirit was the first airline to charge for carry-on bags in 2010.

Which Airline Offers Lower Starting Prices

Spirit’s lower revenue per mile generally results in cheaper base fares compared to Allegiant. Spirit’s advertised prices exclude a Passenger Usage Charge ranging from $8.99 to $27.99 per segment for online bookings. Both airlines strip everything beyond basic transportation from their starting prices, but Spirit’s per-mile cost gives it a slight edge in initial ticket pricing.

Fees, Add-Ons, and Hidden Costs

_{Image Source: InDaily}

Baggage Fees: Carry-On and Checked Luggage

Both airlines include one free personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches for Spirit, 8 x 14 x 18 inches for Allegiant). Allegiant charges $10-$75 for carry-on bags and $18-$50 for checked bags when purchased at booking. Spirit’s carry-on fees range from $31-$65, with checked bags costing $33-$79 depending on timing. Paying at the airport increases costs significantly—Allegiant charges $50-$75, while Spirit charges up to $65 at the gate. Overweight baggage costs differ substantially: Allegiant charges $50 for 51-70 lbs bags, whereas Spirit charges $125 for 51-100 lbs. Oversized bags cost $75 on Allegiant versus $150 on Spirit.

Seat Selection Charges

Allegiant’s seat selection ranges from $1-$80 per flight segment. Spirit charges $1-$200 for regular seats, with Big Front Seats commanding premium prices. Both airlines assign free random seats at check-in if you skip selection[151].

Onboard Purchases: Food, Drinks, and Entertainment

Neither airline offers complimentary refreshments. Spirit charges $3.99-$4.49 for sodas and $9.99 for beer and wine. Allegiant’s prices range from $4 for water to $22 for wine bottles. Snacks cost $4-$7 on both carriers. Spirit offers WiFi for $3.99-$19.99; Allegiant provides none[163].

Total Trip Cost: Calculating Real Expenses

A Spirit round-trip example showed base fare increasing from $26 to $100 after adding bags, seats, and refreshments. Allegiant’s $74 base fare jumped to $202 with baggage and seat selection.

Spirit vs Frontier: How Fee Structures Compare

Frontier’s 40-lb checked bag limit differs from Spirit’s 50-lb allowance. Both charge similar amounts for food and beverages, with combo meal options available. Booking bundled options at purchase saves money compared to airport pricing on both carriers.

Passenger Experience and Service Quality

Seat Comfort: Pitch, Width, and Legroom Options

Spirit’s standard seats measure 28 inches of pitch with 16-17 inches of width. Big Front Seats offer 36-37 inches of pitch and 18.5-22.8 inches of width in the first two rows. Spirit launched Go Comfy seating in 2025 with 32 inches of pitch, expanding from 12 to 42 seats across seven rows by 2026. Allegiant provides 30 inches of standard pitch with 17-inch seat width. Legroom+ seats add four extra inches for 34 total inches. When comparing spirit vs frontier, both carriers tied for the industry’s tightest spacing at 28 inches.

Customer Satisfaction Rankings 2026

Spirit scored 69 out of 100 in the 2025 ACSI rankings, up 3% from 67 the previous year. Frontier ranked lowest at 65, dropping 6% from 69. Southwest led with 80, followed by Delta and JetBlue at 77 each. Allegiant earned second place overall in the Wall Street Journal’s 2025 rankings as the top value carrier.

On-Time Performance and Cancelation Rates

Spirit achieved 73.8% on-time arrivals in June 2025, ranking second behind Hawaiian Airlines. Allegiant recorded 68.9% on-time performance that same month. Allegiant posted a 99.89% controllable completion rate in 2025 and ranked first for fewest cancelations. Spirit’s bankruptcy in November 2024 led to increased cancelations due to staffing shortages.

Flight Attendant Service and In-Flight Experience

Passenger reviews show mixed experiences. Spirit flight crews received praise for cleanliness and professionalism in some accounts, while others reported unprofessional behavior and poor communication. Allegiant flight attendants scored 3.4 out of 5 stars on employee review sites. Both airlines operate functional service models without entertainment systems.

Customer Complaints and How Airlines Respond

Spirit received 3,713 BBB complaints over three years, with 781 closed in the last 12 months. Allegiant logged 552 complaints over three years, with 165 in the past year. DOT requires airlines to acknowledge complaints within 30 days and respond within 60 days. Common Spirit complaints involve cancelations without accommodations, baggage fee disputes, and denied refunds. Allegiant complaints frequently cite communication failures during delays and baggage damage issues.

Comparison Table

Allegiant Air vs Spirit Airlines Comparison Table

Category	Allegiant Air	Spirit Airlines
Customer Satisfaction Ranking	88th out of 90 airlines	87th out of 90 airlines
Fleet Size	111 aircraft	157 aircraft
Destinations Served	119 destinations (US only)	~75 destinations (60 domestic, 25 international across 18 countries)
Daily Flights	Not mentioned	Over 500 daily flights
Route Network Strategy	Regional airports, few flights per week based on demand	Point-to-point network, primarily Eastern US focus
Primary Hubs/Bases	5 hubs: Orlando, St. Pete/Clearwater, Fort Myers, Las Vegas, Phoenix	10 crew bases: Atlanta, Chicago-O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Detroit, Fort Lauderdale, Houston-Intercontinental, Las Vegas, Miami, Newark, Orlando
International Service	No scheduled international flights (seasonal charters to Canada/Mexico only)	Yes – Central America, Caribbean, South America (Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Ecuador, Colombia, Venezuela, Peru, plus Caribbean islands)
Revenue Per Mile	$0.13 per seat mile	$0.11 per seat mile (2nd cheapest in US)
Base Fare Model	Vacation package focus with unbundled pricing	Bare Fare model with 4 tiers: Go, Go Savvy, Go Comfy, Go Big
Personal Item (Free)	Yes (8 x 14 x 18 inches)	Yes (18 x 14 x 8 inches)
Carry-On Bag Fee	$10-$75 (at booking); $50-$75 (at airport)	$31-$65 (at booking); up to $65 (at gate)
Checked Bag Fee	$18-$50 (at booking)	$33-$79 (depending on timing)
Overweight Bag Fee (51-70 lbs)	$50	$125 (for 51-100 lbs)
Oversized Bag Fee	$75	$150
Seat Selection Fee	$1-$80 per flight segment	$1-$200 per flight segment
Standard Seat Pitch	30 inches	28 inches
Standard Seat Width	17 inches	16-17 inches
Extra Legroom Seats	Legroom+ seats: 34 inches (4 extra inches)	Go Comfy: 32 inches; Big Front Seats: 36-37 inches
Premium Seat Width	Not mentioned	Big Front Seats: 18.5-22.8 inches
WiFi Available	No	Yes ($3.99-$19.99)
Complimentary Refreshments	No	No
Water Price	$4	Not mentioned
Soda Price	Not mentioned	$3.99-$4.49
Beer/Wine Price	$22 (wine bottles)	$9.99
Snack Price Range	$4-$7	$4-$7
ACSI Score (2025)	Not mentioned	69 out of 100 (up 3% from 67)
WSJ 2025 Ranking	2nd place overall, top value carrier	Not mentioned
On-Time Performance (June 2025)	68.9%	73.8% (2nd behind Hawaiian)
Controllable Completion Rate (2025)	99.89% (ranked 1st for fewest cancelations)	Not mentioned (increased cancelations due to bankruptcy)
BBB Complaints (3 years)	552 total; 165 in last 12 months	3,713 total; 781 in last 12 months
Flight Attendant Rating	3.4 out of 5 stars	Mixed reviews
Financial Status (2026)	Operating normally	Filed bankruptcy November 2024 after losing $2.5 billion since 2020

Conclusion

The Allegiant vs Spirit debate doesn’t have a clear winner, given that both airlines rank near the bottom in customer satisfaction. Spirit offers cheaper per-mile pricing and international routes, while Allegiant delivers better reliability and serves regional airports. Here’s my take on choosing between them:

Pick Spirit if you need international destinations or frequent flights from major airports. Choose Allegiant for domestic regional routes and fewer cancelations. Calculate your total trip cost with bags and seats before booking either carrier.

Your specific route matters more than the airline name.