Understanding Spirit Boarding Groups: What You Need to Know

If you're planning to fly with Spirit Airlines, you may have heard about the concept of spirit boarding groups While it might sound like a small detail in the grand scheme of air travel, understanding how Spirit's boarding groups work can make your journey smoother and help you navigate the process with ease. In this blog post, we'll break down everything you need to know about Spirit Airlines' boarding groups, how they impact your experience, and tips for making the most of them.

What Are Spirit Boarding Groups?

Spirit Airlines uses a unique boarding process that is slightly different from many other airlines. Instead of calling passengers to board based on seat rows or classes, Spirit assigns each passenger to a boarding group. The boarding group determines when you’ll be allowed to board the plane after other passengers.

For Spirit Airlines, boarding groups are typically numbered, with Group 1 being the first to board, followed by Group 2, Group 3, and so on. This process ensures that everyone gets a fair opportunity to board the plane in an organized manner.

How Do Spirit Boarding Groups Work?

Here's how the process generally works:

1. Boarding Pass and Group Assignment: When you check in for your flight, Spirit will assign you a boarding group. You'll see your group number printed on your boarding pass. For example, it might say "Boarding Group 3" or "Boarding Group 2." The group number corresponds to when you’ll be allowed to board.

2. EarlyBird Check-In: Spirit offers a service called EarlyBird Check-In, which allows you to check in earlier than the standard check-in time. By purchasing EarlyBird, you’ll have a better chance of being placed in an earlier boarding group, such as Group 1. This gives you priority when it comes to securing overhead bin space and settling into your seat.

3. General Boarding: After any priority boarding (such as for those with EarlyBird or Spirit's frequent flyers), the boarding process begins for the rest of the passengers. Spirit boards in the order of the groups, starting with Group 1 and moving sequentially. When your group is called, you can make your way to the gate and board the plane.

4. No Assigned Seats, But Affects Overhead Bin Space: Spirit is a low-cost carrier, and one of the hallmarks of their business model is offering affordable fares by keeping the plane packed. Even though you don’t have a specific seat assignment when you buy a standard ticket, the boarding groups can play a big role in where you sit, especially in terms of overhead bin space. The earlier your boarding group, the more likely you are to secure a spot in the overhead bin for your carry-on luggage.

Boarding Group Hierarchy

Spirit’s boarding process typically follows this hierarchy:

• Group 1: Passengers who have purchased EarlyBird Check-In, Big Front Seat customers, and those with special boarding needs (such as active duty military).
• Group 2: Passengers who have purchased certain bundles like Frill Control or The Works, which include additional services that come with perks, including priority boarding.
• Group 3+: This includes everyone else. Passengers who did not purchase EarlyBird or any premium packages will board according to their assigned group number, typically starting from Group 3 onward.

Tips for Managing Spirit Boarding Groups

1. Consider Purchasing EarlyBird Check-In

If you want to improve your boarding experience and have a better shot at overhead bin space, consider investing in EarlyBird Check-In. It’s a paid upgrade, but it’s often worth the extra cost if you're flying with carry-on luggage or want to settle into your seat without stress.

2. Arrive at the Gate Early

Even though you are assigned a boarding group, Spirit’s boarding process can sometimes get a bit chaotic. Arriving at the gate well in advance will give you time to get ready and ensure you're not rushed when your group is called.

3. Know the Benefits of Each Group

While boarding in Group 1 means you'll likely find space for your carry-on in the overhead bin, it’s not as critical if you’re checking a bag. If you're in a later boarding group and don't have any carry-on items, you’ll have less stress about your seating and space.

4. Be Prepared for Crowded Planes

Spirit Airlines is known for its budget-friendly fares, but they often operate on tight schedules with full flights. As such, the boarding process might feel quicker and less spacious compared to other carriers. Be patient, stay organized, and stay alert to announcements.

5. Travel Light

If you want to speed up the boarding process, try to travel light and keep your items in your seat or under the seat in front of you. This will not only make it easier to board but also reduce the stress of finding overhead space if you're in a later group.