View Full Version : Anyone fly Spirit Airlines?
Well, f**k me running.
I booked a flight for me and the wife to Houston. Did it on Expedia and the deal seemed really good for a direct flight and the flight times were perfect for us. I didn't really know anything about Spirit Airlines when I booked but figured as long as they had a plane and would get us safely from here to Houston and back it probably didn't matter.
Anyhow, they sent me an email with a little info.
Turns out the fare pretty much bought me a seat on the plane, one small "personal item" and that's it.
Want to get your boarding pass at the airport? That's $10.
Want a carry on bag? Extra.
Bottle of water or a soda? No problem, as long as you pay for it.
You can pick your seat if you want to pay for that option. Otherwise they will randomly assign you a seat.
Wish I had know this when I booked. Not really an issue for me. I can probably play by their rules and get by OK. But my wife doesn't travel lite.
By the time I pay for the extra stuff I probably could have just flown United or Frontier or whatever.
Maybe I can talk her into packing all of her stuff in a box and just FedEx it overnight to save a few bucks.
Denver to Hobby...just fly the Luv Bus and your checked bags fly free [Flower]
If airlines could eliminate the seats, put straps in the planes and have standing room only, they would. Kerosene is expensive.
They might as well make it standing room only at Spirit. They made it a point to let me know they have more seats on their planes than anyone else so there is a little less leg room on their planes.
[facepalm]
Thanks for the honesty, Spirit. I probably could have gone without knowing that. Doesn't really make me look forward to flying with you.
ZERO THEORY
02-03-2015, 22:22
Just went through this same ordeal for New Year's. My flight to Phoenix was like $70 or something. Lo and behold, I checked in and found out that my checked bag was going to run me another $42. And they try to get another $5-$20 out of you every step of the way, including getting a reserved seat (cough up another $15), and having to pay for sodas/water/beer on the flight.
Fuck Spirit Airlines.
EDIT:
You already covered all the bases, I just skipped ahead. But uh, yeah. The point remains.
Frontier is right behind them. Just be forewarned. You basically get your butt in a seat, a not very comfortable one.
when it comes down to it, it really is best to buy a United ticket if it is on a mainline flight (737/a319/a320/757)
When was the last time you could get a free beer on a plane?
Seats don't recline anymore also
If you just need a seat somewhere and can carry what you need on your back, then Spirit works. Yes, everything costs more money, and even more at the last minute. Carry on bag is $30 at the check in counter or $100 at the gate. Just have to plan ahead and prepay for what you need. I use them for quick flights somewhere and plan accordingly. If I do need to fly with guns or gear, I'll fly someone else.
I'm thinking the next time I fly I'll wear good shoes and jacket, carry on underwear and shop at Goodwill when I get there.
buffalobo
02-03-2015, 23:50
I'm thinking the next time I fly I'll wear good shoes and jacket, carry on underwear and shop at Goodwill when I get there.
Not too loud, my redneck family will hear, next thing you know BIL will be standing on my front porch in his underwear. [fail][panic][LOL]
Cattle cars in the sky.[Coffee]
Not too loud, my redneck family will hear, next thing you know BIL will be standing on my front porch in his underwear. [fail][panic][LOL]
Cattle cars in the sky.[Coffee]
Move along SLF, move along.
Must be a flying theme around here today...
mackbamf
02-03-2015, 23:59
We just flew Frontier a couple weeks ago and they are definitely going downhill. No free carryon luggage, it actually costs less to check a large suitcase than bring one with you. You get a free cup of water anything else is going to cost you. Plus they all apparently hate their job and all passengers as well...
boomerhc9
02-04-2015, 00:13
I booked tickets the first time by myself for a trip last july. rented my first rental car too. Great deal from allegiant. $52 dollars just for flying with my backpack. $171 for 2 day car w/nav and insurance.
I will never fly allegiant again. First, the plane was 2 hours late getting there to pick us up. Then they moved our departure gate 3 times (2 times I don't know why and the third because of a haboob followed by a rainstorm, which surrounded the entire air port) We waited an hour and a half when they Then said they had "electrical issues" and one of the guest heard 2 agents talking and shouted out, "what are you talking about safety issues" to the ticket agents. The pilot let us know it was an electrical short that could have been a safety issue. (while we were sitting on the plane for 45 minutes.) After30 minutes sitting on the tarmac, the lady and her 3 kids one therapy dog, and missing husband, tried to get off but finaly sat down and we were allowed to take off.
Didn't get back to the springs until 1:30 am or so.
Didn't care, the turbulence through the storm was horrible. Between all that and several screaming kids, I was just glad to be back on the ground.
Madeinhb
02-04-2015, 01:52
Frontier is owned by Spirit Airlines. That's why they are going downhill.
Madeinhb
02-04-2015, 01:54
We just flew Frontier a couple weeks ago and they are definitely going downhill. No free carryon luggage, it actually costs less to check a large suitcase than bring one with you. You get a free cup of water anything else is going to cost you. Plus they all apparently hate their job and all passengers as well...
Yup. My wife and I had to fly them due to using up files for a free trip. Instead of 2 cartons- we checked one large back for less.
Their new thing is you buy what you need. Instead of it all in the price and if you don't use - you still pay. Not many people are happy with it. We'll see how long t lasts. But I'm done with them.
Madeinhb
02-04-2015, 01:57
I'm thinking the next time I fly I'll wear good shoes and jacket, carry on underwear and shop at Goodwill when I get there.
FedEx also works.
$10 for boarding pass? wtf...I'm on my first spirit flight this weekend but I'm well aware of the other dumb fees.
NFATrustGuy
02-04-2015, 04:46
Frontier is owned by Spirit Airlines. That's why they are going downhill.
Close, but not exactly.
A group of investors called Indigo Partners bought Spirit some time ago as a "fix-and-flip" project. They "transformed" the airline to what the industry is calling an Ultra Low Cost Carrier. The whole idea of unbundling--paying extra for everything beyond the actual seat--is a key component of the ULCC concept.
In any case, profits increased significantly under the ULCC model and Indigo sold a large percentage of Spirit by way of an Initial Public Offering. As of just a little over a year ago, Indigo sold all its remaining shares in Spirit and purchased Frontier in hopes of doing the same thing.
So no, Spirit doesn't own Frontier, but they're headed down the same fix-and-flip ULCC transformation with hopes of a very profitable IPO by the same corporate raiders that previously invested in Spirit.
Time will tell if this ULCC concept is really viable as a long term business plan, but in the short term, it seems to be wildly successful from a financial standpoint. 2014 was Frontier's most profitable year in its 20+ year history. Personally, I hate the concept, but it's hard to argue with the objective financial performance numbers.
RWW
KestrelBike
02-04-2015, 06:46
Close, but not exactly.
A group of investors called Indigo Partners bought Spirit some time ago as a "fix-and-flip" project. They "transformed" the airline to what the industry is calling an Ultra Low Cost Carrier. The whole idea of unbundling--paying extra for everything beyond the actual seat--is a key component of the ULCC concept.
In any case, profits increased significantly under the ULCC model and Indigo sold a large percentage of Spirit by way of an Initial Public Offering. As of just a little over a year ago, Indigo sold all its remaining shares in Spirit and purchased Frontier in hopes of doing the same thing.
So no, Spirit doesn't own Frontier, but they're headed down the same fix-and-flip ULCC transformation with hopes of a very profitable IPO by the same corporate raiders that previously invested in Spirit.
Time will tell if this ULCC concept is really viable as a long term business plan, but in the short term, it seems to be wildly successful from a financial standpoint. 2014 was Frontier's most profitable year in its 20+ year history. Personally, I hate the concept, but it's hard to argue with the objective financial performance numbers.
RWW
F*** Indigo. Brilliant for their shareholders/profit, shitty for the consumer who take time to adjust their demand dynamics (ie not fly on airlines that suddenly aren't what they want in a flying experience). Sounds similar to what EA and various other video game giants did to the industry.
XC700116
02-04-2015, 07:37
Frontier is right behind them. Just be forewarned. You basically get your butt in a seat, a not very comfortable one.
when it comes down to it, it really is best to buy a United ticket if it is on a mainline flight (737/a319/a320/757)
Don't even get me started on those assholes, after over 50 flights with them in 2014, all the perks I'd earned are out the fricken window as of next week. I'm done with them. Delta, American, and united from here on out.
Don't even get me started on those assholes, after over 50 flights with them in 2014, all the perks I'd earned are out the fricken window as of next week. I'm done with them. Delta, American, and united from here on out.
They are taking your miles away or expiring? Or what are the perks you are talking about?
F*** Indigo. Brilliant for their shareholders/profit, shitty for the consumer who take time to adjust their demand dynamics (ie not fly on airlines that suddenly aren't what they want in a flying experience). Sounds similar to what EA and various other video game giants did to the industry.
yeah they make some serious money, but a lot of it they are taking from the workers. Laying off 1300 ground support people isn't acceptable in my mind. All to get lower wages and people who won't care.
but as long as they have people just looking for the cheapest ticket price and not reading the fees and disclaimers, the planes will be full and Indigo will make big money.
$10 for boarding pass? wtf...I'm on my first spirit flight this weekend but I'm well aware of the other dumb fees.
What do you need a boarding pass for? The idea is that you print your own out at home before you even leave for the airport.
Many of the other airlines are switching to cheap base tickets and then charging you for all the add ons as well.. I can't think of any airlines that I fly on these days that stand out as being better than any of the others.
Great-Kazoo
02-04-2015, 09:36
We drive. Then again If we have to travel it's because someone died, again. WE also call the airline vs on-line reservations. Tried the cheap fares 1x. After the airline dicking us around "because we didn't use normal airline booking" and were regulated to basic seating. Unfortunately for them, their OOPS gave us 2 fly anywhere in the continental U.S. tickets after the fact.
Spirit has one of the worst CS ratings. If you're flying Spirit, plan on being late, delayed or cancelled. Both ways.
When was the last time you could get a free beer on a plane?
You get what you pay for.. want a bargain basement seat.. You get one. It's no longer illustrious to fly..
You still get free drinks in 1st class.. Just sayin.
clodhopper
02-04-2015, 10:33
You think the front end charges are bad on Spirit? Just wait til you get on board. Advertising everywhere. All the overhead bins have advertising on them. The stewardesses make multiple passes down the aisle with a cart of crap to hawk, like credit card apps and stuff. Even the pilot gets on the intercom to convince you to participate in the wonderful deals offered on the plane. It will remind you of a timeshare offer weekend.
I used to fly Frontier, but the acquisition by Republic has killed them. Took a good basic middle of the road offering and crashed it to bottom basement. Sad really.
Generally fly United now as they go to the places I need to get to. Shows a little more on the ticket when searching fares, but much more reliable. And when things go wrong for them, they kick back rewards to apologize.
I guess as long as they get me there in one piece and stay relatively close to schedule I'll just deal with it this time.
I know this whole thing is all on me for not checking into the airline before I booked.
Maybe I should read all of the fine print and see if I can cancel and get a refund. Then I can just book a flight on a normal flight. At least I'll gain a little leg room.
Glad I didn't book some sort of 4 1/2 hour flight.
Madeinhb
02-04-2015, 10:53
Close, but not exactly.
A group of investors called Indigo Partners bought Spirit some time ago as a "fix-and-flip" project. They "transformed" the airline to what the industry is calling an Ultra Low Cost Carrier. The whole idea of unbundling--paying extra for everything beyond the actual seat--is a key component of the ULCC concept.
In any case, profits increased significantly under the ULCC model and Indigo sold a large percentage of Spirit by way of an Initial Public Offering. As of just a little over a year ago, Indigo sold all its remaining shares in Spirit and purchased Frontier in hopes of doing the same thing.
So no, Spirit doesn't own Frontier, but they're headed down the same fix-and-flip ULCC transformation with hopes of a very profitable IPO by the same corporate raiders that previously invested in Spirit.
Time will tell if this ULCC concept is really viable as a long term business plan, but in the short term, it seems to be wildly successful from a financial standpoint. 2014 was Frontier's most profitable year in its 20+ year history. Personally, I hate the concept, but it's hard to argue with the objective financial performance numbers.
RWW
Makes sense. I heard the people who owned Spirit were buying frontier. Didn't know they sold Spirit though.
The Norseman
02-04-2015, 10:54
Just experienced all this same shit flying with the whole family on Norwegian Airlines. Pay to check bags, pay to reserve a seat, pay for anything on the plane. Wouldn't fly with a carrier like this ever again given a choice....
I usually fly out of state 15 - 20 times a year. If I can, I will try to leverage Southwest as much as possible. The main reason is that their "Add On" fee's are very minimal and you get two checked bags included in the fare. My second choice is a mixture of United, Frontier, or American. All three of those airlines play the "Additional Fee's" game on varying services so you need to take that into consideration when comparing fares between airlines. A good example is comparing a Southwest fare to one of the others. The Southwest fare includes checked bags so it is going to be more expensive than another carrier that lists their fare price WITHOUT the checked bags fees included. So you always need to put that into perspective when comparing fares.
Every time I have looked at Spirit Airlines fares + fee's, by the time you actually get where you want to go with a couple of checked bags the total cost is usually more than most other Airlines.
The reason why airlines are moving towards the "Additional Fee's" business model is mainly for tax reasons. They are taxed different on the air fare verses service fee's. The service fee's are taxed less so the more $$$ they can push into that bucket the better off they are from a tax perspective. How this negatively affects the customer I am sure they could give a shit less. Its all about making money for them with customer service way down on the priority list.
mtnrider
02-04-2015, 11:13
Flying is no fun anymore no matter who you use. They are (almost) All charging for things that used to be included etc. Only a few of the top tier airlines are not doing this. If you want a bargain price don't expect much in the way of service. It's just a seat from point A to B and that's it. Everything else is extra. Hell, even buying a $400 ticket doesn't get you much. Probably still going to pay to check a bag.
I have flown well over a million miles and used to somewhat enjoy it. Not anymore.
two shoes
02-04-2015, 11:27
I will not likely fly them again. For an "over nighter" with a backpack, maybe... I find their business practices deceptive. My corporate travel agency (online) has them and it is by far the cheapest fare, but once you add everything up they are more expensive. We have a policy to take the cheapest flight, unless for "business needs"... That will be my option from now on.
colorider
02-04-2015, 11:29
Read the fine print and take a small carry on. That's how you have to travel these days if you want to fly on a budget. Spirit is bottom of the barrel as they don't even have reclining seats. Price is right if you can carry on and it's a short flight. Bring your own snacks and drink (that you purchased for inflated prices at the airport.).
Read the fine print and take a small carry on. That's how you have to travel these days if you want to fly on a budget. Spirit is bottom of the barrel as they don't even have reclining seats. Price is right if you can carry on and it's a short flight. Bring your own snacks and drink (that you purchased for inflated prices at the airport.).
Within reason, you can travel with packaged food items though security. Yes, you will have to buy a $2 bottle of water or coke.
http://www.tsa.gov/traveler-information/traveling-food-or-gifts
I fly with jerky, Atkins bars, etc in my bag nearly always.
I will not likely fly them again. For an "over nighter" with a backpack, maybe... I find their business practices deceptive. My corporate travel agency (online) has them and it is by far the cheapest fare, but once you add everything up they are more expensive. We have a policy to take the cheapest flight, unless for "business needs"... That will be my option from now on.
While UA is our official carrier (I'm sure the big wigs are Global Service), our corporate travel policy requires "lowest logical fare." Flying a budget carrier with add-ons is illogical.
clodhopper
02-04-2015, 12:52
Time will tell if this ULCC concept is really viable as a long term business plan, but in the short term, it seems to be wildly successful from a financial standpoint. 2014 was Frontier's most profitable year in its 20+ year history. Personally, I hate the concept, but it's hard to argue with the objective financial performance numbers.
Just experienced all this same shit flying with the whole family on Norwegian Airlines. Pay to check bags, pay to reserve a seat, pay for anything on the plane. Wouldn't fly with a carrier like this ever again given a choice....
I think the profit bump from the ULCC conversion will be short lived as it is mostly reliant on uneducated travelers buying something they don't understand. Over time, travel culture will change and the profit bump will seem less significant. What it will do in the long term is potentially crater a brand by being commonly associated with deceptive business practices.
XC700116
02-04-2015, 13:14
They are taking your miles away or expiring? Or what are the perks you are talking about?
Been a summit member for quite some time, came with free baggage, free upgraded seating and advanced seat assignments. Free n/a drinks on the plane. Now all that is gone, and just get the miles, and no more bonus miles
Been a summit member for quite some time, came with free baggage, free upgraded seating and advanced seat assignments. Free n/a drinks on the plane. Now all that is gone, and just get the miles, and no more bonus miles
Ouch, quite the slap in the face to a top tier frequent flyer.
glenncal1
02-04-2015, 15:31
GF and I flew to Ft. Lauderdale last November, stupidly booked with Spirit who wasn't that much cheaper than the other airlines at first pass. $10 to reserve seats (add $20 to rt fare), about $40 to check a bag (add $80 to rt fare), leave golf clubs home because it would be $160 to check two sets rt. About as comfortable as sitting on a bus bench. Going again in May, taking SW, about $60 more initially, but that includes two checked bag and seats. Get to take golf clubs this time. Flying sux.
Aloha_Shooter
02-04-2015, 15:45
This is more or less the same model followed by Ryanair and other very low cost carriers. It succeeds because so many people only look at the ticket price. The major airlines in the US have experimented with prices and found that the US consumer may talk about being willing to pay more for a better experience but at the end of the day, they buy tickets solely based on the ticket price. We only have ourselves to blame for this trend.
spqrzilla
02-04-2015, 16:35
I'm thinking the next time I fly I'll wear good shoes and jacket, carry on underwear and shop at Goodwill when I get there.
Some years ago, my wife and I spent three weeks in Europe that basically started as a carry-on bag each with some clothes we didn't intend to bring back and toothbrushes. Bought clothes at flea markets was actually fun, washed some, threw away some when too dirty and had half empty bags at the end of the trip for souvenirs. Heck I even bought a cheap pocket knife in Amsterdam that I tossed in trash at airport as we returned. We packed light because we were traveling around Netherlands, Belgium and France by train.
Was great fun.
I fly occasionally but always prefer to drive.
Pack your favorite snack foods and put an empty water bottle in your carry on bag. Fill the bottle with water once you pass security. Spend as little time in airports as possible. Audio books on a Kindle/Nook/iPhone. Pack as light as possible. If you are flying domestically, there will be plenty of anything you can't bring with you at your destination.
Deice at DEN was pretty good this morning. It is warmer and sunnier here than it was in Denver when I left this morning. I always look forward to being at home.
The only thing I really need an airline to do for me is get me from one gate to the next gate in one piece.
Be safe
I drive 1500 miles each way to visit my folks every year so we don't have to deal with the airlines. I don't know how y'all put up with it.
Sent from my electronic leash.
NFATrustGuy
02-04-2015, 18:28
When I retire from flying for the airlines, my personal goal for the remainder of my life will be to NEVER fly another mile on a commercial flight. My nephew is getting married in eastern Kansas next month. I could fly for free, but I will be driving the ~1200 mile round trip. The whole commercial flying process from the time you pull into the parking lot absolutely sucks.
RWW
When I retire from flying for the airlines, my personal goal for the remainder of my life will be to NEVER fly another mile on a commercial flight. My nephew is getting married in eastern Kansas next month. I could fly for free, but I will be driving the ~1200 mile round trip. The whole commercial flying process from the time you pull into the parking lot absolutely sucks.
RWW
No kidding man. I hate that place.
As to Spirit and Frontier, I would bet that even with all the little fees, the total cost will still be cheaper than Southwest, United, Delta, or another carrier. Not that I blame anybody for choosing a different carrier.
KestrelBike
02-04-2015, 19:20
When I retire from flying for the airlines, my personal goal for the remainder of my life will be to NEVER fly another mile on a commercial flight. My nephew is getting married in eastern Kansas next month. I could fly for free, but I will be driving the ~1200 mile round trip. The whole commercial flying process from the time you pull into the parking lot absolutely sucks.
RWW
What are some of the first things you'd do to improve the situation? Or, what's the most critical to fix?
Madeinhb
02-04-2015, 19:45
Just experienced all this same shit flying with the whole family on Norwegian Airlines. Pay to check bags, pay to reserve a seat, pay for anything on the plane. Wouldn't fly with a carrier like this ever again given a choice....
Well it is Norwegian airlines. Were you in Europe?
I drive 1500 miles each way to visit my folks every year so we don't have to deal with the airlines. I don't know how y'all put up with it.
Sent from my electronic leash.
My family is over 1,100 miles away.
I put up with the airline stuff because I can be there in less than 2 1/2 hours versus about 14 hours in the car.
I love to fly. I pack a backpack of clothes, phone charger, and the bare necessities. I get to the airport super early to make my way leisurely through security to start walking the gates. I love to people watch, so I usually do a few laps, sit for a while, then do a few more laps.
NFATrustGuy
02-04-2015, 20:17
What are some of the first things you'd do to improve the situation? Or, what's the most critical to fix?
I've always admired Southwest's employee-centered approach. I understand that this might be changing now that Herb is no longer actively running the show, but the philosophy was that if you treat your employees well and show them some respect, they'll take care of your customers and you'll have a thriving business.
Like so many other large companies who hide behind the "our duty is to maximize profits for shareholders" line, Frontier really doesn't give a flying shit about its employees or their morale. No matter how enthusiastic the employee, this demoralizing treatment trickles down to the customer.
Frontier is the epitome of the modern trend whereby they believe that profit is a zero sum game. They believe that a dollar saved is a dollar earned. This is not accurate. For every extra dollar they make by unbundling the various aspects of the travel experience, they lose some portion of a dollar in lost revenue because customers take their business elsewhere. For every dollar they lose by paying employees substandard wages, they lose some portion of a dollar due to higher than standard turnover rates.
They spend more time screwing employees and customers than they would spend by just doing the right thing in the first place. Morality and "doing the right thing" is simply not in the corporate vocabulary.
In the short term, the singular focus on cost savings and nickel and diming passengers and employees will yield artificially high earnings. In the longterm, I believe it is a recipe for failure. Right now, Frontier is riding the wave of historical employee and passenger goodwill. It won't take long before passenger and employee alike will realize that it's not really raining, they're being pissed on.
My sister was flying Spirit to Vegas and got to DIA running late, got to the ticket agent with 53 minutes until departure and was told her ticket was canceled because she did not check in at least 1 hour prior to departure. they wouldn't even give her a chance to make her flight. They would however sell her a ticket on their next flight for $330.00. We spread the word and none of my family will fly Spirit ever again. EVER !
mtnrider
02-04-2015, 20:33
My sister was flying Spirit to Vegas and got to DIA running late, got to the ticket agent with 53 minutes until departure and was told her ticket was canceled because she did not check in at least 1 hour prior to departure. they wouldn't even give her a chance to make her flight. They would however sell her a ticket on their next flight for $330.00. We spread the word and none of my family will fly Spirit ever again. EVER !
That's the policy with any airline at DIA. Been that way for a Long time. It's not just Spirit.
You get what you pay for.. want a bargain basement seat.. You get one. It's no longer illustrious to fly..
You still get free drinks in 1st class.. Just sayin.
That explains it. I've only ever walked through first class, and even then I think of all the planes I've been on in my entire life, maybe 1/10 of them have even had first class at all. I don't think I've ever even been on a plane with a center row. Probably the flight to London, but I honestly don't remember.
The Norseman
02-05-2015, 00:39
Well it is Norwegian airlines. Were you in Europe?
Yes, over the Xmas holiday. Flew Norwegian from Stockholm to Oslo. Tickets were dirt cheap but the overall added fees drove cost right back up. If I were to do it again I'd take the train or drive....
Hotchef181818
02-05-2015, 08:42
My sister was flying Spirit to Vegas and got to DIA running late, got to the ticket agent with 53 minutes until departure and was told her ticket was canceled because she did not check in at least 1 hour prior to departure. they wouldn't even give her a chance to make her flight. They would however sell her a ticket on their next flight for $330.00. We spread the word and none of my family will fly Spirit ever again. EVER !
Thats how how it would have gone down for anyone, flying any airline. That's DIA policy. It has nothing to do with Spirit Airlines. It posted all over the ticket counters, and is usually covered when purchasing tickets online that depart from DIA.
While I do agree with the policy for multiple reasons I did fall victim to it on one of my first flights out of DIA many years ago. I think I arrived about 52 min before my flight, it sucked.
mtnrider
02-05-2015, 09:16
While I do agree with the policy for multiple reasons I did fall victim to it on one of my first flights out of DIA many years ago. I think I arrived about 52 min before my flight, it sucked.
^ Me too. Probably about 15 years ago I had it happen. Hit a snow storm coming back down out of the mountains and got to the counter with just under an hour to go. Last flight of the night and they would not let me proceed. This was on Delta and I was a Platinum Medallion level flier with them at the time (and that comes with a lot of perks). Needless to say I slept in the airport that night.
KestrelBike
02-05-2015, 18:57
I've always admired Southwest's employee-centered approach. I understand that this might be changing now that Herb is no longer actively running the show, but the philosophy was that if you treat your employees well and show them some respect, they'll take care of your customers and you'll have a thriving business.
Like so many other large companies who hide behind the "our duty is to maximize profits for shareholders" line, Frontier really doesn't give a flying shit about its employees or their morale. No matter how enthusiastic the employee, this demoralizing treatment trickles down to the customer.
Frontier is the epitome of the modern trend whereby they believe that profit is a zero sum game. They believe that a dollar saved is a dollar earned. This is not accurate. For every extra dollar they make by unbundling the various aspects of the travel experience, they lose some portion of a dollar in lost revenue because customers take their business elsewhere. For every dollar they lose by paying employees substandard wages, they lose some portion of a dollar due to higher than standard turnover rates.
They spend more time screwing employees and customers than they would spend by just doing the right thing in the first place. Morality and "doing the right thing" is simply not in the corporate vocabulary.
In the short term, the singular focus on cost savings and nickel and diming passengers and employees will yield artificially high earnings. In the longterm, I believe it is a recipe for failure. Right now, Frontier is riding the wave of historical employee and passenger goodwill. It won't take long before passenger and employee alike will realize that it's not really raining, they're being pissed on.
Interesting. I used to *love* Frontier, until they were bought out. Then I noticed after just 2 flights how utterly poor their quality had become, to where I fly even AA now because its cheaper yet still more efficient/better. I have no reason to fly Frontier anymore, with what they've become.
I was the same with Frontier. I have been with them from when they started...... No more. Last night I got their new 'rewards' program. Perfect timing today as I had to book flights... Stayed away from both Spirit and Frontier.
Interesting. I used to *love* Frontier, until they were bought out. Then I noticed after just 2 flights how utterly poor their quality had become, to where I fly even AA now because its cheaper yet still more efficient/better. I have no reason to fly Frontier anymore, with what they've become.
Aloha_Shooter
02-06-2015, 03:21
Thats how how it would have gone down for anyone, flying any airline. That's DIA policy. It has nothing to do with Spirit Airlines. It posted all over the ticket counters, and is usually covered when purchasing tickets online that depart from DIA.
While I do agree with the policy for multiple reasons I did fall victim to it on one of my first flights out of DIA many years ago. I think I arrived about 52 min before my flight, it sucked.
DIA is the shit. I hate going through there and will not originate from there if I can help it. On the other hand, at least it's not Newark or O'Hare.
Jeffrey Lebowski
02-06-2015, 08:13
Sorry to be so late to this party, gents. The nickel and diming at Spirit is total BS. Having said that….
They made it a point to let me know they have more seats on their planes than anyone else so there is a little less leg room on their planes.
Seats don't recline anymore also
I don't think that is true at all (edit what they told ray, b/c of what jslo said) and it was one really redeeming thing about Spirit. Admittedly, I flew them ONCE for a weekend wedding in Las Vegas.
The seats blew my mind because they were like giant plastic buckets, that if not bolted down, could have resembled stacking chairs a church or HS might use. In other words, they had NO back on them - no tray, no pocket, just some netting for the plane info.
This was a God-send. $0.02 At 6'5", I absolutely loathe flying. They all suck. This was a breath of fresh air.
I really apologize to the world, but if I am sitting behind you on a plane, other than international, you are simply not reclining. After years of cycling, you will simply not have the weight or strength (even you fatties) to recline against my legs which are backed up to my seat back. Again I'm sorry, but it won't happen. Not even getting to that point on Spirit was pretty nice. I actually had plenty of legroom for a change. I'd do it again on one of those planes anyday.
ZERO THEORY
02-06-2015, 08:32
I'm thinking the next time I fly I'll wear good shoes and jacket, carry on underwear and shop at Goodwill when I get there.
Jack Reacher in the house!
F*** Indigo. Brilliant for their shareholders/profit, shitty for the consumer who take time to adjust their demand dynamics (ie not fly on airlines that suddenly aren't what they want in a flying experience). Sounds similar to what EA and various other video game giants did to the industry.
DRM not only ruined the video game industry, but Keurig tried it with their coffee makers. Consumers were not pleased.
http://www.theverge.com/2015/2/5/7986327/keurigs-attempt-to-drm-its-coffee-cups-totally-backfired
Landed in Dallas a couple hours ago. Direct flight from DIA. Checked a bag an hour and a half before my flight. Waited around at the baggage claim but my bag never came around. My first instinct was some ass-hat grabbed my bag and headed to their car without checking the name. I go to make a claim at lost luggage and they tell me I never checked a bag to begin with. The lady actually asks, "Are you sure you checked a bag?" I couldn't find the slip they gave me so I couldn't prove that I had. I just have to "wait until my bag is found somewhere."
Wife's sister picks us up and we head to her house where I begin to search every pocket of my clothes and laptop case. Low and behold, I find the receipt slip! And my name is not on it. The dipshit that checked my bag, checked it under the wrong name. I never even thought to check the name myself. Now my bag is in Portland and I have no clean undies. A couple new pairs of Hanes are the high value items so I'm not out much. The bag was free to me so that's not a financial loss.
It just pisses me off that this would happen. I'm as much at fault for not checking the receipt slip as the bonehead who put the wrong name on it. Regardless, I'm unhappy.
The flight was decent. I sat in the exit row so I had leg room for days.
Jeffrey Lebowski
02-20-2015, 19:15
I couldn't find the slip they gave me so I couldn't prove that I had.
That's a mistake you'll make ONCE.
I used to always pitch them out. Then I lost a bag once. Luckily, that particular time I had the slip in my pocket still.
Now I'm pretty type-A about those slips.
BladesNBarrels
02-21-2015, 10:41
Oh yeah, flying is a real treat now.
I remember flying Braniff Airlines in the early 70's.
Every passenger was served Filet Mignon on real china plates, alcoholic drinks were inexpensive, and the service was fast.
All the men did wear suits and ties, and the ladies dressed for Sunday-Going-To-Meeting.
Then that pesky Airline Deregulation Act in December, 1978, changed the whole flying experience.
Now, I drive to my destination with my wife's suitcase in the car. She will fly out and meet me without having to carry anything.
My legs don't fit in the new seating configurations, and the frustration level rises as soon as I am greeted at DIA.
The world is cyclical and I am waiting for the new airline experience returning to serving passengers versus the bottom-line.
hurley842002
02-21-2015, 10:46
Now, I drive to my destination with my wife's suitcase in the car. She will fly out and meet me without having to carry anything.
Hmmm that's not a bad idea, my wife hates driving and I hate flying.
Jeffrey Lebowski
02-21-2015, 11:13
I am waiting for the new airline experience returning to serving passengers versus the bottom-line.
Are you waiting to pay for it? Take those early 70s fare prices and inflation adjust them.
Edit: Or fly first class.
Oh yeah, flying is a real treat now.
I remember flying Braniff Airlines in the early 70's.
Every passenger was served Filet Mignon on real china plates, alcoholic drinks were inexpensive, and the service was fast.
All the men did wear suits and ties, and the ladies dressed for Sunday-Going-To-Meeting.
Then that pesky Airline Deregulation Act in December, 1978, changed the whole flying experience.
Now, I drive to my destination with my wife's suitcase in the car. She will fly out and meet me without having to carry anything.
My legs don't fit in the new seating configurations, and the frustration level rises as soon as I am greeted at DIA.
The world is cyclical and I am waiting for the new airline experience returning to serving passengers versus the bottom-line.
Emirates Air, if they fly where you go. I can't afford it, and wouldn't finance the Arabs if I could, but they offer a premium experience.
BladesNBarrels
02-21-2015, 12:09
Are you waiting to pay for it? Take those early 70s fare prices and inflation adjust them.
Edit: Or fly first class.
I agree that current fares do compete with a bus ride and we all are now treated as if our trip was a bus ride (as I remember Greyhound and Continental Trailways)
And we dress as if we were expecting a long, hot bus ride. So which came first, the treatment by the airlines or the attitude of the passengers?
My last commercial flight, I flew Delta, round-trip, from Denver to Atlanta in June of 2006, paying extra to be in first class.
There wasn't any upgraded service over what was served in Coach Class and the leg room had been reduced. I didn't feel like first class.
After arriving in Atlanta, my luggage was not there - it had gone to Dallas.
I tried to confirm my seat for the return trip to Denver in three days, and I was told very curtly that I would have to wait until 24 hours before I left.
Not the experience I expected for the extra 75% cost.
Jeffrey Lebowski
02-21-2015, 17:53
I agree that current fares do compete with a bus ride and we all are now treated as if our trip was a bus ride (as I remember Greyhound and Continental Trailways)
And we dress as if we were expecting a long, hot bus ride. So which came first, the treatment by the airlines or the attitude of the passengers?
My last commercial flight, I flew Delta, round-trip, from Denver to Atlanta in June of 2006, paying extra to be in first class.
There wasn't any upgraded service over what was served in Coach Class and the leg room had been reduced. I didn't feel like first class.
After arriving in Atlanta, my luggage was not there - it had gone to Dallas.
I tried to confirm my seat for the return trip to Denver in three days, and I was told very curtly that I would have to wait until 24 hours before I left.
Not the experience I expected for the extra 75% cost.
Yeah, FWIW, I've never paid it. I should. I don't fly a lot, but it is absolute misery when I do @ 6'5".
But, for an extra grand plus (overseas), I'd almost rather suffer and use the money to finance a few extra days. Maybe next time.
Your point is spot on, though. It is amazing what people wear to fly, but you are right, given how we are treated, why not?
Plus, with all the hassle of 2 hours early, and then another at least 90 minutes to get your bag, shuttle, rental, etc, all but the shortest trips kill any plans of doing much upon arrival other than checking in and cleaning up anyway.
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