What losing Spirit Airlines changed for everyday travelers

It’s been nearly five months since Spirit Airlines shuttered, leaving travelers with one less option for cheap flights.

Meanwhile, airfares have continued to rise amid higher fuel costs and other factors.

“August marked the ninth consecutive month of rising airfare, according to the latest CPI data, with prices moving up another 2.7% from July. “Fares are now running 23% higher than a year ago,” David Krauter, CEO of flight deals site Going told USA TODAY by email. “Right now, Thanksgiving fares are running about 13% higher year-over-year, and winter holiday fares are close behind at roughly 11% higher.”

USA TODAY reconnected with several former Spirit customers to see where they’re turning and trying to save now.

Matthew Cappucci used to take quick weekend getaways when he found cheap deals on Spirit.

“Nowadays, I'm just not really doing that as much,” he said. “It's disappointing. I know that's true for a lot of people.”

A recent survey from travel insurance marketplace Squaremouth.com found more than 1 in 10 travelers would reconsider a trip due to rising airfares and nearly 1 in 4 travelers have already scaled back a trip this year.

Cappucci remembers setting off on many adventures on Spirit.

“I'd…

Original source: https://www.usatoday.com/money/