The cheapest domestic airlines in the USA can vary depending on the route, time of booking, and seasonal promotions, but generally, these airlines are known for offering low-cost fares:
1. Spirit Airlines
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Spirit is often considered the “ultra-low-cost” carrier. They have very cheap base fares but charge for nearly everything else, such as seat selection, bags, and drinks. If you’re willing to travel light and skip some of the amenities, you can find very affordable tickets.
2. Frontier Airlines
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Similar to Spirit, Frontier operates as an ultra-low-cost carrier with cheap base fares. However, like Spirit, most extras (like bags and seat selections) come at an additional cost.
3. Allegiant Air
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Allegiant operates fewer routes than Spirit or Frontier, but it often offers very low base fares, especially to smaller regional airports. They also charge for extras, so it’s important to check all fees when comparing prices.
4. Southwest Airlines
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While not as “bare-bones” as Spirit or Frontier, Southwest is still considered affordable, especially when you factor in that they don’t charge for checked bags or change fees. They also have a generous rewards program and a reputation for good customer service.
5. JetBlue Airways
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JetBlue offers competitive prices, especially in the Northeast, but it is more of a “value carrier” than an ultra-low-cost carrier. You get more perks, like free Wi-Fi and snacks, but the fares can still be quite reasonable if booked in advance.
6. American Airlines, Delta, and United (Basic Economy)
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While the big legacy carriers like American, Delta, and United aren’t typically considered “cheap” airlines, their basic economy options can sometimes offer competitive fares on domestic flights. The tradeoff is fewer perks, such as no seat selection or limited flexibility.
General Tips to Save:
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Book early: The cheapest fares are usually found when booking several weeks or months in advance.
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Avoid peak times: Flying on weekdays or outside of holiday seasons can save you money.
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Check for hidden fees: Be sure to check all fees (like luggage, seat selection, etc.) before booking to make sure you’re getting the best deal.