✈️ Which Airline Is the Cheapest?
There is no single airline that is always the cheapest, but some airlines consistently offer the lowest base fares. These are usually low-cost or ultra-low-cost carriers that keep prices down by charging separately for extras like baggage and seat selection.
🔎 Quick Overview
- Cheapest airlines usually offer basic fares only
- Best for travelers flying light
- Total cost depends on baggage and add-ons
🇺🇸 Cheapest Airlines in the United States
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Spirit Airlines –
Official site
Known for the lowest base fares in the U.S.
Sample prices: $29–$79 one-way on short routes -
Frontier Airlines –
Official site
Very competitive pricing, especially on nonstop routes
Sample prices: $39–$99 one-way -
Allegiant Air –
Official site
Cheap flights between smaller cities and vacation destinations
Sample prices: $49–$119 one-way -
Avelo Airlines –
Official site
Low fares on select regional routes
Sample prices: $59–$129 one-way
🌍 Cheapest Airlines Internationally
Europe
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Ryanair –
Official site
Often the cheapest airline in Europe -
Wizz Air –
Official site
Extremely low fares across Central & Eastern Europe -
easyJet –
Official site
Low prices on major European city pairs
Sample prices: €15–€49 one-way on short routes
Asia & Pacific
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AirAsia –
Official site
One of the cheapest airlines in the world -
Scoot –
Official site
Budget long-haul and regional routes
Sample prices: $20–$60 one-way within Asia
🧳 Watch Out for Hidden Costs
- Carry-on bag fees: $35–$75 each way
- Checked baggage fees: $40–$100+
- Seat selection and priority boarding fees
A $49 ticket can quickly turn into a $150 flight if you add bags.
💡 Cheapest vs Best Value
While ultra-low-cost airlines have the cheapest base fares, traditional airlines can be cheaper overall if they include:
- Free carry-on bag
- No change fees
- Better schedules and fewer cancellations
Sometimes airlines like Southwest, JetBlue, Delta, or American Airlines offer better total value despite higher base fares.
💡 Tip
Always compare the total price (fare + baggage + seat fees), not just the advertised ticket price.
Bottom line: If you want the absolute lowest base fare, ultra-low-cost airlines are usually the cheapest. If you want fewer surprises, paying slightly more upfront can save money overall.