Spirit Airlines gets a lot of attention—for its low fares, extra fees, and, let's be honest, some wild travel stories. But when it comes to safety, is the airline actually risky?
The surprising truth? Spirit is just as safe as the big guys.
First, Let's Define "Safe"
When we talk about airline safety, we're not talking about:
- Seat comfort
- Customer service
- Boarding experiences
We're talking strictly about:
- Accident history
- FAA and DOT compliance
- Aircraft maintenance
- Pilot training
- Operational safety records
And when it comes to those? Spirit checks out.
Has Spirit Ever Had a Fatal Crash?
No.
As of 2025, Spirit Airlines has never had a fatal crash in its entire operational history.
It has been flying since 1983 and has maintained a strong safety record, especially after becoming an ultra-low-cost carrier (ULCC) in the early 2000s.
How Is That Possible for a "Budget" Airline?
Good question. Here's the key:
- All U.S. airlines—including Spirit—are regulated under the same strict FAA standards
- Spirit's planes undergo regular maintenance checks like any other carrier
- Its pilots go through the same rigorous training as those at Delta or American
- Air traffic control, weather protocols, and crew rest rules apply to everyone
So whether you pay $89 or $489 for a flight, the safety standards are identical.
Spirit's Fleet: Modern and Standardized
Another surprising fact? Spirit's fleet is one of the youngest in the U.S.
- Average aircraft age: ~7 years
- Aircraft types: Mostly Airbus A319, A320, and A321 models
- Fleet consistency: A standardized fleet makes maintenance and training easier, not harder
- Modern advantages: Newer planes = modern systems, fuel efficiency, and up-to-date safety tech
What About Those Emergency Landings?
Yes, Spirit has had emergency landings, just like every major airline. But here's what's important:
- Emergency landings are usually precautionary
- They are a sign of good training and safety response, not failure
- Most are due to smoke indicators, mechanical warnings, or medical issues—not catastrophic events
- And again, zero fatalities
Spirit Is Certified, Regulated, and Monitored
Spirit operates under:
- FAA's Part 121 regulations (the highest commercial aviation standard)
- Regular FAA audits and evaluations
- Compliance with TSA, DOT, and NTSB procedures
- Ongoing pilot simulator and emergency procedure training
They don't cut corners on safety, even if they cut costs on snacks and legroom.
Why Do People Feel Unsafe on Spirit?
Here's where perception comes in.
People sometimes confuse cheap with unsafe. Why?
- No frills = "low quality" feel
- More in-flight incidents go viral on social media
- Packed cabins and delayed flights add stress
But none of these impact flightworthiness.
You might get hit with a bag fee—but your pilot is still FAA-certified.
💡 Pro Tip: If you're nervous about flying any airline, including Spirit, the SkyCalm app provides safety education, breathing exercises, and calming techniques to help you feel confident regardless of which carrier you choose.
Comparing Spirit to Major Carriers
| Safety Factor | Spirit Airlines | Major Carriers |
|---|---|---|
| FAA Regulations | ✓ Part 121 Compliance | ✓ Part 121 Compliance |
| Pilot Training | ✓ FAA Certified | ✓ FAA Certified |
| Maintenance Standards | ✓ FAA Required | ✓ FAA Required |
| Fleet Age | ~7 years (Younger) | ~10-15 years |
| Fatal Accidents | 0 | Very Rare |
What About Spirit's Safety Ratings?
The Psychology of Budget Airline Fear
Many people unconsciously associate 'cheap' with 'unsafe,' but this cognitive bias doesn't apply to airline safety:
- Safety is non-negotiable: The FAA doesn't offer "budget" safety standards
- Cost savings come from service: Fewer amenities, not fewer safety measures
- Standardization helps: Spirit's uniform fleet actually improves safety consistency
The Bottom Line
Spirit Airlines is safe.
- No fatal crashes
- Young, standardized fleet
- FAA-regulated crew and training
- Emergency landings handled properly
- Low price ≠ low safety
It might not be luxurious, but Spirit is flying under the same air traffic system and safety rules as every other airline in the sky.
So if the price is right—and you bring your own snacks—you're making a budget-savvy, safety-sound choice.
Still Nervous About Flying Spirit (or Any Airline)?
SkyCalm provides comprehensive safety education, airline safety comparisons, and anxiety management techniques to help you feel confident flying any carrier.
Download SkyCalm on iOSRemember
Safety standards are the same across all U.S. airlines. Whether you fly Spirit or a legacy carrier, you're protected by the same rigorous FAA regulations and safety protocols.