Budget airline Spirit Airlines unveils an economical flight connection between two popular tourist destinations in Florida.
Spirit Airlines Launches New Fort Lauderdale to Key West Route
Starting on November 6, 2025, Spirit Airlines will introduce a new direct flight from Fort Lauderdale (FLL) to Key West (EYW), offering budget-friendly fares for travellers. With fares starting at $79 per leg, this route provides an affordable alternative for those looking to explore the popular yet remote destination of Key West, the southernmost point in Florida and the entire contiguous U.S.
However, it's important for travellers to be aware of potential hidden fees common to Spirit Airlines flights. Key fees include charges for seat assignments (starting at $1 and up to $50), checked and carry-on bags (no bags are included in the basic fare), airport-printed boarding passes ($2 at kiosks and $10 at counters), and booking fees such as a $35 surcharge when booking by phone or up to $27.99 for online reservation usage per segment.
The new route will initially operate four weekly flights, travelling on Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Sundays. From December 18, 2025, the service frequency will increase to daily flights.
Key West, an incredibly popular tourist hotspot, is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic attractions, and unique charm. The Southernmost Beach Resort offers charming and quirky cottage-style accommodations, and is located near attractions like the Butterfly and Nature Conservatory and the US-1 Mile Marker 0 monument. The Hemingway Home and Museum, the historic retreat of author Ernest Hemingway, is also worth a visit, housing descendants from his beloved six-toed cat. Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval Street is the epicenter of late-night music, drinks, and dancing.
In Fort Lauderdale, visitors can explore the Historic Stranahan House Museum, the oldest structure in the city, which is close by The House on the River. This restaurant, located in one of the oldest buildings in Fort Lauderdale, offers an Instagram-worthy vibe, delicious food, and a historic atmosphere. Sistrunk Market, a food hall and brewery near the downtown area, is another popular destination for visitors.
Travellers should be aware that there are no direct flights from Tallahassee to Orlando, nor are there any flights between Tampa and Jacksonville within Florida. American Airlines has announced new daily service between Miami International Airport (MIA) and Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS), the airport that services parts of the 30A region.
However, travelling to popular vacation spots like 30A or Key West by car can be a traffic nightmare. The new Spirit Airlines route provides a more convenient and cost-effective option for those looking to explore these destinations.
Spirit Airlines offers three options for travellers: Spirit First, Premium Economy, and the classic Value option. Travellers can add on extras at their discretion in the Value option, but should be mindful of potential hidden fees.
To avoid costly add-ons, passengers are advised to check in online, print or download boarding passes in advance, select seats early if desired, and purchase baggage during booking. Spirit’s low base fares often exclude many amenities, so planning ahead is key to controlling out-of-pocket costs on this route and others.
[1] Spirit Airlines Official Website: https://www.spirit.com/us/en/home.html
[2] Spirit Airlines Press Release: https://news.spirit.com/news/spirit-airlines-announces-new-service-between-fort-lauderdale-key-west
[3] Spirit Airlines Fee Schedule: https://www.spirit.com/us/en/fees
[4] American Airlines Press Release: https://news.aa.com/press-releases/american-airlines-to-offer-new-daily-service-between-miami-international-airport-and-destin-fort-walton-beach-airport-233968772.htm
- For those seeking an affordable way to experience Key West's vibrant lifestyle, the new Spirit Airlines route from Fort Lauderdale promises budget-friendly fares for travel.
- As you plan your leisure travel, consider adding Key West, with its unique charm and popular tourist attractions, to your itinerary, easily accessible now with Spirit Airlines' new direct flight.
