Editor’s Note – Tuesday, March 05, 2024: The shine has worn off the ring, and thankfully the engagement is off. JetBlue announced yesterday that it told Spirit “it’s not you, it’s us” and ended their relationship. Apparently there was just too much (antitrust) drama. JetBlue will pay a $69 million breakup fee, and Spirit will continue to operate as an independent ultra-low-cost airline, free to once again date other airlines.
While we’d have pasted on a smile and danced at the reception anyway, we always knew JetBlue could do better. Now, we’re waiting – but not holding our breath – to see if either one will mail our gift back.
JetBlue and Spirt airways announced (ahead of their Board Meeting tomorrow) that they agreed on a deal for JetBlue to buy Spirit (at 2x the current stock price)
If you have flown on JetBlue you know that their team (for the most part) is friendly, accommodating, the planes are nice and the flights always seem to go smoothly.
We love flying JetBlue.
If you have ever flown Spirit, you would never do it again unless you needed a non-stop, you travel VERY light, and you are into S&M.
One of my teammates just purchased a ticket on Spirit from Orlando to Cincinnati.
The cost of the flight was $75. But after the gouging for a seat, baggage, and air to breath, the cost was $295.
Yes, I am bashing Spirit and throwing down rose petals in front of JetBlue.
That is because I have been on the receiving end of a Spirit flight.
The Spirit Customer Support Team are a tough crowd.
When Frontier looked like they were going to buy Spirit we were fine with that.
Both Spirit and Frontier are cut from the same cloth. 2 wrongs just make 1 large wronger.
But everyone I have spoken with in the travel industry is terrified that JetBlue will be eaten alive if this merger goes through.
Spirit has some great routes and those cities could be a real bonus for JetBlue. If the gouging stops and the attitudes are adjusted.
JetBlue may be into S&M.
They are battling the DOJ challenge to their American Airlines alliance – in addition to merging with Spirit.
They have their hands full.
Cross your fingers and toes.
And wait to see who’s riding who at the end of the race.
~Jake
P.S. This is my opinion. I am sure there are Free Spirt loyalty program members who would love to retort. Thank you founding fathers for the 1st Amendment…
“Americans will be able to renew their passports securely online, saving time from having to wait and the effort and cost required to print, go to a post office, and use a paper check”