Preferred Choice for airlines?

[AlanHall]

I just booked with Spirit for the trip from Detroit to LAX. I'm trying to calculate in my head the value of booking with another carrier (Delta) in order to get reliable transportation (rather, more reliable) as I've heard horror stories of Spirit's operational woes.

Anybody have reassurances or stories of disaster to share about using Spirit Airlines?

[Casey H]

I think there are travel delays and issues with all the airlines. MHO is go for the least expensive fare. Just check if there are hidden fees when you book with an economy airline (checked bag, carry on, seating, etc.) that make the price not the deal you thought it was. I know Frontier nickels and dimes you for everything, not sure about Spirit.

Best,
Casey

[Kwall1]

My wife & I have been Delta devotees for some time now. We use an Amex "Skymiles" card to gain "miles" credits but used to be we still occasionally flew other carriers for short jaunts depending on cost. The devotion started when she was on a bereavement trip to FLA and they had over booked and were bumping passengers. But her seat was guaranteed. Maybe a better deal can be had if we did the research, used a different CC with different benefits etc. But those constantly changing perks are a PITA to keep up with and/or change programs so we just go with what we know and have had no complaints. And last year we flew 1st Class to Key West, cost us $22 process fee. And I've always been able to get my guitar in the cabin .

[AlanHall]

Thanks Casey, Kent, for the discussion!
I flew Delta last year (and do have a skymiles account) but saving a few hundred$$ makes me want to try an alternative.
Spirit does allow one carry on and one checked bag at the tier I chose - middle tier, "comfort" I think they call it. Basically $10 more than the cost of economy plus a checked bag. No-brainer!
I haven't flown with a guitar, but I have seen folks have larger items stowed in a closet space up front so I'm sure it can be done with a little luck or some schmoozing. I have gotten a mandolin in the overhead bins, though.

[Casey H]

Spirit does allow one carry on and one checked bag at the tier I chose - middle tier, "comfort" I think they call it. Basically $10 more than the cost of economy plus a checked bag. No-brainer!
I haven't flown with a guitar, but I have seen folks have larger items stowed in a closet space up front so I'm sure it can be done with a little luck or some schmoozing. I have gotten a mandolin in the overhead bins, though.

Just bring a lot of quarters in case you need to use a restroom on the flight! jk

Are you planning to bring a guitar or other instrument? I'd advise against it unless you have a compelling reason to do that. They provide instruments at the open mics, in case anyone needs to know.

See you there!
Casey

[AlanHall]

Are you planning to bring a guitar or other instrument? I'd advise against it unless you have a compelling reason to do that. They provide instruments at the open mics, in case anyone needs to know.

Good advice! I didn't bring anything last year, and don't have an overwhelming need to change that.