Spirit Airlines is best known for their rock bottom fares and addon charges for almost everything but they have a little secret for those looking for extra space. Spirit Airlines offers a business class style seat without the business class prices or amenities. Spirit Airlines big Front Seat product will be reviewed form Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT) to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS).
Booking Experience
Booking is accomplished by visiting spirit.com, being a member of Spirit’s Savers club the price was an affordable $19 base fare. After selecting the big front seat and other applicable taxes and fees the total airfare came to $44. The cost for a Big Front seat selection ranges from a modest $12 to a hefty $750. It is possible to upgrade to the seats after booking for a cost ranging anywhere from $25 to $250.
First Impressions
In Charlotte Spirit Airlines flights operate out of the recently expanded terminal A. As no bags were checked it was a breeze through security. Boarding commenced right on time. Boarding started with those needing additional assistance along with active duty military. Afterwords groups one and two were welcome aboard. Heading onboard crewmembers warmly greeted boarding passengers. On the newer Airbus A320neos the Big Front Seats are the first two rows. Seats appeared to be in clean condition sporting black leather with yellow accents. Along the headrest is Big Front Seat lettering visible when boarding.
Inflight Experience
A unique aspect to Spirit Airlines Big Front Seats are that the onboard product is not much different than their Economy Product. There are no complimentary snacks or beverages in Big Front seats however, snacks are available for purchase. The seat does not recline but instead “pre reclines.” The seat does offer a good amount of space with 36″ of pitch and 18.5″ width. A full tray table is stored in the side of the seat and can accommodate a full sized laptop. There are no power outlets, so on longer flights it may be best to charge up devices at the airport. Throughout the flight the crew were in the isles constantly taking trash and offering the buy on board service.
Final Approach
The Big Front seat is a pretty good value for the money considering many full service airlines like American and United Airlines offer business class tickets for a much higher price. Yes the lack of a complimentary snack or meal may be a turnoff, however on shorter legs such as this flight that was not a big deal. While the seat does have some letdowns like no power outlets or recline it does a great job at getting the job done. Crew on this flight were attentive and even cracked some jokes along the way. In all the Big Front Seat product does not try to be more then it is, which is laterally a larger front seat towards the front of the aircraft.