Experts are predicting that the end of Spirit Airlines' operations will lead to higher airfares in the United States. Spirit Airlines, known for its ultra-low-cost model, ceased its global operations on May 2, 2026. The airline's business model, which offered stripped-down travel options, including no free meals or baggage transport, played a unique role in the industry. The US Department of Justice (DOJ) argued in 2023 that Spirit's presence in a market typically lowered prices for consumers. With Spirit's exit, there are concerns about rising airfares, especially with increasing jet fuel costs due to the Middle East war. Jan Brueckner, an economics professor, suggests that airlines will continue to offer basic economy fares. Aviation expert Richard Aboulafia believes that fares will increase in some markets. Other low-cost carriers such as Breeze, Avelo, and Frontier are stepping in to fill the void. Frontier plans to add new routes and increase departures in former Spirit routes. Bradley Akubuiro, a partner at an advisory firm, suggests the cheapest air travel options may become harder to find.