Company flies its first Airbus A321 from Ft Lauderdale

Spirit Airlines celebrated on Friday the inaugural flight of its first Airbus 321. Flight 180 took off from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport for New York's LaGuardia Airport.

"We are delighted to introduce our current and future customers to the first Airbus in our fleet. The freshly painted silver, red and gray exterior not only shows a new look but also represents the technologically-advanced direction of our company," said Jacob Schorr, CEO and President of Spirit Airlines. "We believe customers will enjoy the leather seating throughout as well as the stylized and comfortable interiors."

Schorr added, "Spirit already has one of the lowest costs of operation in the airline industry, and the new Airbus aircraft, which are technologically advanced and fuel efficient, will assure our continued leadership."

Three more A321s will join this first Airbus by the end of the year. Spirit plans to add 35 Airbus aircraft to its fleet over the next five years, with options to purchase 50 more.

Spirit's A321 aircraft holds 198 passengers with 182 in Spirit Coach and 16 in Spirit Plus. Spirit Plus is the airline's low-cost business class service, offered for an additional $60-$100 per flight segment on a pre-reserved basis, or as an upgrade on the day of departure. Spirit Plus features 2-by-2 seating, complimentary beverages and a snack.

FMI: www.spiritair.com