Spirit Airlines Ends Service at San Jose Mineta International Airport
SAN JOSE, CA – Spirit Airlines has ceased operations at San Jose Mineta International Airport (SJC), leaving a gap in low-cost travel options for South Bay residents. The airline’s final flight from San Jose occurred recently, marking the end of a nearly year-long effort to bring affordable air service to the region.
The departure raises concerns about air travel affordability in silicon Valley, where a wide range of income levels exists. Spirit launched nonstop flights to washington D.C. in 2023, responding to passenger demand, but its exit is being viewed as a symptom of broader challenges within the airline industry. Last year, approximately 12 million passengers traveled through SJC, still below the pre-pandemic peak of 15.6 million.
Dan Connolly, who served as chair of the San Jose Airport Commission during Spirit’s arrival, emphasized the importance of budget airlines for the diverse economic landscape of the area. “It was exciting to bring a low cost airline in as in this valley,we have a huge socioeconomic range,from very low income to extremely high income,” Connolly told San José Spotlight. “I do think it’s critically important that we have choices in air travel and affordability.” He expressed uncertainty about whether another carrier will fill the void left by Spirit.
While acknowledging Spirit’s “nickel and dime” practices during a personal flight, Connolly maintained that the South Bay deserves access to economical airfare. The airport is now assessing potential options to restore low-cost service and mitigate the impact on travelers.
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