Published in 2025 / Updated May 2026
American airline Spirit Airlines has announced it is ceasing operations.
The carrier failed to reach an agreement with the Donald Trump administration on financial assistance, and the final blow was dealt by rising jet fuel prices due to the US-Israel war with Iran.
Spirit Airlines canceled all flights overnight between Friday and Saturday (01/05/26 – 02/05/26) and promised passengers refunds for their tickets.
The situation may change, but we’ll hope for the best and won’t remove this page from our website for now.
Spirit is a cabin-only airline for pets. If your pet can’t fit under the seat, they can’t fly the yellow-and-black skies. There is no cargo or checked baggage service for animals, which means your pet stays right where they belong: at your feet.
The Guest List: Who’s Invited?
Spirit welcomes a mini-menagerie on board, but only on domestic flights (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands).
- The Usual Suspects: Small dogs and cats.
- The “Hop-On” Guests: Small household rabbits and birds (note: rabbits and birds are not allowed on flights to/from Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands).
- International Alert: Sorry, globetrotters—Spirit does not allow pets on international flights (except for certified Service Dogs).
The Cost of the “Tail-Wind”
- The Fee: $125 USD per container, each way.
- The “Two-for-One” Hack: Spirit allows one container per passenger, but you can have two pets in that single container as long as they are the same species and can both stand and turn around comfortably.
- Capacity: Spirit allows a total of 6 pet containers per flight. Since this is first-come, first-served, we recommend booking via their WhatsApp or reservation line the second you buy your ticket.
Important Restrictions & Rules
- Age Limit: Pets must be at least 8 weeks old and fully weaned.
- The “No-Go” List: No “exotics” allowed—leave the snakes, spiders, rodents (hamsters/guinea pigs), and lions at home.
- Seating: You can sit almost anywhere, but no exit rows or bulkhead seats (Row 1) for pet parents. Your pet needs a seat in front of them to hide under!
- Behavior: Your pet must be “mannerly.” If they’re barking like they’re at a rock concert or smelling like a swamp, Spirit can deny boarding.
The “Apartment” (Carrier) Specs
Your pet carrier counts as your one plus one carry-on allowance (it will replace your carry-on bag).
- Maximum Dimensions: 18″ L x 14″ W x 9″ H (45.72 cm x 35.56 cm x 22.86 cm).
- Weight Limit: The combined weight of the pet and carrier must not exceed 40 lbs (18.14 kg).
- Material: Only soft-sided carriers are permitted in the cabin. They must be leak-proof and well-ventilated.
The “Paws-port” Paperwork
- Domestic U.S. (Mainland): Spirit generally does not require a health certificate for pets in the cabin for most domestic flights.
- U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI): A veterinary health certificate is mandatory.
- Puerto Rico: You must provide a Rabies vaccination certificate.
- Check-In: You cannot check in online or at a kiosk. Head to the ticket counter so an agent can inspect your carrier and give your pet the “A-OK.”
💡 Expert Tips for a Smooth “Spirit” Flight
- The TSA Dance: At security, you’ll carry your pet through the metal detector while their “mobile home” goes through the X-ray. Make sure they have a secure harness!
- First-Come, First-Served: Spirit’s 6-pet limit is higher than some airlines, but those spots go fast during holidays. Book early!
- Hydration: Don’t feed a heavy meal before the flight, but do bring a collapsible water bowl for the airport.
Leave a Reply