We usually take for granted how lucky we are to live in a time when safe, reliable air travel has become more affordable than ever, giving us easy access to parts of the world we once thought downright unattainable.
But with so many low-cost airlines popping up left and right, it can feel impossible to filter out the ones actually worth the hype – luckily for us, though, World Airlines Awards just came out with its annual ranking of North America’s best budget carriers, voted by travelers all over the country.
So if you’re looking for some inspo on where to find those great-value tickets you’re looking for, make sure to stick around; some of the names that made it to the list will take you by surprise.
5. Spirit Airlines
Travelers have always had a love-hate relationship with Spirit.
From customer service issues to the famously limited legroom, the low-cost carrier has had its fair share of complaints, but in an effort to redeem its reputation, Spirit has come out with new exciting routes, extra-low fares that are hard to beat, and convenient policy updates, and thus, managed to maintain a good enough standing to nab the No. 5 spot on today’s list.
Just earlier this year, the airline announced free cancellations and changes on all flights!
And remember these used to cost upward of $120, so if there’s ever been a time to give the Florida-based carrier a second chance (or even a first) that time’s now.
4. Avelo Airlines
With flights that start at just $29, cancellation rates that don’t surpass 1%, and seats with extra leg space, Avelo Airlines has managed to quickly make a name for itself.
What’s more, the low-cost carrier has made a conscious commitment to operating underserved routes that were, until now, too expensive for most casual travelers.
Not only that, but a last year’s report shows that close to 83% of Avelo’s flights reached their destination within 15 minutes of their scheduled arrival, a rate that outperforms even much, much more premium airlines.
3. Southwest Airlines
Moving on to a more widely recognized name, Southwest clearly is aiming to stay on top of the game.
Between launching several exciting new routes in these past few months and introducing some practical changes, including a couple of redye flights, it’s safe to say that Southwest is fighting through its controversies and seeking to make the traveler experience a bit more premium.
And, of course, what sets Southwest aside from most of its budget competitors is the fact that every traveler gets two checked bags for free – most of the other carriers on today’s list would charge hundreds for the same exact service.
So, if you’re going on a longer trip anytime soon and want to pack freely, Southwest is probably your best bet.
2. Sun Country Airlines
I feel like we don’t talk enough about Sun Country Airlines, especially considering it has long been one of the most positively viewed low-cost carriers by the general public – SkyTrax even named it the best in the country in July last year.
But while this year there was another competitor that took the crown, I still want to take the time to note that as far as budget flights go, it doesn’t get much better than Sun Country.
With reclining seats, complimentary beverages, onboard power outlets, complimentary entertainment, and fast direct routes, this often-overlooked airline will most probably exceed your expectations.
1. Allegiant Air
Coming in at No. 1 is none other than Allegiant Air, a carrier that, by the way, also nabbed the top spot in this year’s SkyTrax rating.
The fact that all these reports are pointing to the same airline is no mistake – Allegiant is famous for its unbeatable fares to some of the world’s most coveted destinations, its package and bundle deals, and great in-flight service.
And the carrier just launched new $69 routes to a couple of truly dreamy places not too long ago, so their schedule is definitely worth a look.
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