Don’t fly Spirit Airlines

 Casey, our youngest, booked a flight from Atlanta to Tampa. He chose Spirit because of its alleged lower ticket prices.

Initial cost might be lower, but add-on charges raised Casey’s payout higher than a Delta flight, he said.

Casey spent around $260 for a round-trip ticket. On the airline web site, he clicked a box to choose a seat. Picking a seat was an additional $45.

While continuing his flight arrangements, he learned he could not check any luggage, and that a carry-on would be another $45. Casey decided not to take carry-on, but would buy clothes here, at less cost than the $45.

Sunday, Casey phoned Spirit to verify his return flight. Spirit said the airline had sold his seat, because he did not check in at least 24 hours in advance of the flight. He spent another $45 to get a different seat.

That was $350 for a $260 ticket.

So, if you want an airline that has real customer service, use anyone but Spirit.