Spirit Airlines announced its arrival at Charleston International Airport (CHS) with daily, nonstop flights to Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Newark (EWR) and Philadelphia (PHL) starting in April 2023, with introductory fares starting at $39 and $49 one-way.

"We're excited to connect the beautiful city of Charleston, South Carolina, with three of the biggest metro areas on the East Coast," said John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning at Spirit Airlines. "Spirit's affordable fares and convenient, nonstop flights allow Guests to travel more often to visit friends and loved ones, and explore Charleston's attractions, coastline and world-class restaurants."

The new service will offer CHS travelers easier and more affordable access to the Northeast, and Guests traveling from CHS will also gain dozens of international connection opportunities through Fort Lauderdale, which is home to one of Spirit's largest operations and its primary gateway to Latin America and the Caribbean.

"We are grateful for Spirit's commitment and investment in our community and the Charleston International Airport," said Elliott Summey, airport executive director and CEO. "Spirit's low fares and affordable flights provide more options for travelers to take a vacation here in Charleston, or for local residents to visit family and friends in three major cities any day of the week."

Spirit Airlines Routes at Charleston (CHS):

• Fort Lauderdale (FLL)–- Daily beginning April 5, 2023
• Newark (EWR)–- Daily beginning April 5, 2023
• Philadelphia (PHL)–- Daily beginning April 5, 2023

Spirit's arrival will boost the number of airlines serving the state's busiest airport to 13.

"The new partnership with Spirit is a major achievement for our community and further illustrates the strength and desirability of the Charleston region," said Helen Hill, CEO of Explore Charleston and Chair of the Aviation Authority." The Northeast and Florida have consistently been top areas of origin for visitors to the Lowcountry. Additional daily options for Philadelphia, Fort Lauderdale, and New York area residents to conveniently enjoy our region's unparalleled attributes increase our travel industry's competitiveness and economic impact. Simultaneously, an additional carrier and new nonstop flights are important benefits for Charleston area locals who can now more affordably and easily connect with friends and family in these markets."