Spirit Airlines emerged in March from bankruptcy after filing for it in November, when it reported losing $1.2 billion for 2024. The low-cost airline cut flights and fired about 200 people companywide. With its debts renegotiated, Spirit is trying to cater to wealthier people, CEO Ted Christie has said.

The Key West service comes after Spirit announced in July new direct flights between FLL and Macon, Georgia. The airline will have two flights a week beginning Oct. 16, starting at $49.99 one way. Macon is home to the Allman Brothers and Luther Williams Field, the baseball stadium used in "42," the film about Jackie Robinson's life.

Spirit Airlines will start nonstop flights from Fort Lauderdale to Key West on November 6, 2025, with plans to offer daily flights starting December 18. Introductory fares begin at $79 one way.