A Critical Point for Ultra-Low-Cost Carriers at Skift Aviation Forum

Skift Take

As ultra-low-cost carriers struggle to remain profitable, we’ll hear from numerous executives at the Skift Aviation Forum on how the business can survive.

Meghna Maharishi

Pre-pandemic, ultra-low-cost carriers were among the most profitable in the industry. Four years later, a big question in the industry seems to be: Can ultra-low-cost carriers survive?. There’s been rampant speculation that Spirit Airlines may file for bankruptcy. Frontier Airlines has fared better, but it’s also reported underwhelming results. 

On the other hand, ultra-low-cost carriers that have focused on niche markets have been profitable, but aren’t experiencing the same level of success as some of the legacy airlines. 

Plus, Pratt & Whitney groundings and Boeing delivery delays have also hindered the sector’s ability to grow. Spirit and Frontier are imitating the legacy carriers with bundled fare options and premium products. But will it work? 

At this year’s Skift Aviation Forum, I’m interested in hearing from executives about the viability of the ultra-low-cost model in the current consumer landscape. 

We’ll be hearing from Spirit Airlines chief commercial officer Matt Klein and Allegiant chief commercial officer Drew Wells on if there’s room for reinvention for the business. Sun Country CEO Jude Bricker will also share his insights on navigating profitability in a volatile industry.

Learn more here, and reserve your seats below.