Frontier Adds Routes as Spirit Faces Bankruptcy Threats

Frontier Airlines is launching 20 new routes this winter—many in major Spirit Airlines markets—as it seeks to capture share amid its rival’s financial turmoil. The move follows Spirit’s warning that it “might not be able to survive another year without more cash,” creating openings in key markets. Frontier overlaps with Spirit on 35% of its capacity, more than any other US carrier, according to Deutsche Bank analyst Michael Linenberg.

The new routes will roll out in late 2025 and early 2026, including service from Fort Lauderdale to Detroit, Houston, Chicago, and Charlotte. Additional flights will connect Houston with New Orleans, San Pedro Sula (Honduras), and Guatemala City. CEO Barry Biffle said the carrier sees “a clear path to being the number one low-fare carrier in the top 20 US metros,” adding that recent industry capacity shifts have “opened the door for Frontier.”

The strategy comes as Spirit restructures following its March emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy and warns of “substantial doubt” about its ability to continue operating without improved liquidity. In response, Frontier has introduced loyalty matching and expanded routes centered on Spirit hubs. Its focus on network optimization, product innovation, and loyalty upgrades aims to position it as the leading ultra-low-cost carrier in major US markets.