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Enraged by some random fee, it wasn’t long ago that I swore I’d never fly Spirit Airlines again. But could this premium seat in the very front of an otherwise inhumanely packed, nickel-and-dimed cattle car be worth unloading a little extra cash for?
Airline: Spirit
Aircraft: Airbus A320
Row: 1 Seat: C
Class: Big Front Seat (Economy Service)
The Seat: Throw these Big Front Seats in a legacy airline’s first class cabin aboard a domestic aircraft and you likely wound’t even notice a difference, outside a few added comfort features or entertainment options. Seat width is significant considering that you’ve got a nice sized center console for your drinks and elbows while legroom is adequate for a bulkhead seat. There’s enough room to get full leg extension if you’re up to a low-average height but your legs will likely hit the wall if you’re taller. Still, miles better than anything else aboard this plane. While the seat is a bit than and isn’t quite an ergonomic masterpiece, it’s plenty comfortable for a domestic jump.
Service: You may be in a fancy seat, but you’re still one in the masses packed into this flying tin of sardines. There’s no glassware, no hot towels or free booze up front. You’re just another guy or gal who not long ago had an extra $12 to $200 dollars in their pocket.
Entertainment/Productivity: Spirit serves up complimentary in-flight “wi-me?” and seat-back boredom. Bring an extra battery for your gadget because the airline provides a whole lot of nothing here.
Food: It’s all a-la-carte and the SNACK selection isn’t terrible. If you need a meal, eat before or grab a sandwich to bring on board. Here’s a look at the airline’s current offering (Nov. 2012). Spirit Airlines On-Board Menu.
Summary: If you want wiggle room and an hope to retain some sense of dignity when flying Spirit, these are the only seats on the airplane for you. I’m not sure what else to say here.
Rating: 3 hops (of 5)
Strategy: Once you’re booked in economy, you can upgrade to these seats at any time (if available) but are cheapest if you’re still able to buy them at the gate or on-board. As of Nov. 2012 advance upgrades can be had from $12 – $200 and gate/on-board upgrades are $25 – $75.
Modhop Host & Founder Jake Redman brings years of global exploration and travel tips to the podcast and our videos at Modhop. Jake is also a Producer and Host for SiriusXM.
Review of: Holiday Inn Orchard City CentreReviewed by: Jake RedmanRating:4On November 15, 2012Last modified:November 15, 2012Summary:More DetailsHotel Name: Holiday Inn Orchard City Centre Location: Singapore {{orbitz2}} 4editor ratingMore Details
wendy on November 20, 2012
I’ll take the Big Front Seats on Spirit anyday. Most coach airline seats give my back fits. This is one of the few that I can fly and still walk after the flight. A coach flight is 2 to 3 days in bed with severe back pain and walking with a walker or using a wheel chair.
Zhong Liang Ong on December 3, 2012
WHUT? I wear that same pair of shoes! Nice to see a boardingarea site having run the gamut from United to Tiger Airways (singapore airlines budget offshoot)!
Jake Redman on December 3, 2012
I loved those shoes but they fell victim to Hurricane Sandy. I may order a new pair if I can find them. And thanks! I try to get a variety of aircraft/airlines on the site. Hope the reviews are helpful!
stu on February 2, 2013
im flying to las vegas in mid march 2013.. im contemplating between the spirit big front seat and flying delta first class.. flying delta is about 300 more but is it worth it??? i have never flown first class but really want to and il have the extra money. the big front seat seems like a deal but with no entertainment and no real baggage priority not sure what to decide since im going to have at least one checked bag and possibly my golf clubs…. please feel free to give me your opionion.. thanks!!
Zhong Liang Ong on February 4, 2013
I’m sorry to hear that. Yeah, I appreciate your posts, as well as Ghetto IFE’s from the back of the bus, since not everyone gets to ride up front all the time. I’m impressed that you probably covered more of the budget airlines in Asia than I have, despite SIN being a 30 minute train ride away.
VICTOR on April 1, 2013
Hi Stu i would say go for Delta. Spirit is the worst airline. Ther is no leg room and know if you don’t check in online they will charge you five dollar extra. it is abusive with the customer.
HHNCARRIE on July 15, 2013
I couldn’t decide if the seat would be worth it but after seeing your video, I decided to pay the upcharge. Everything I have read about Spirit is horrible so I am excited to know that maybe my experience tomorrow will be a little less bad. Thanks for the review.
modhop on July 15, 2013
HHNCARRIE- You’re very welcome – Glad the review was helpful. Enjoy the upgrade!
HHNCARRIE on September 18, 2013
UPDATE: I had the seat both to and from my destination. I LOVED it! I was super comfy for both flights. I am actually taking another flight in late September and again chose Spirit and the front seats 🙂 Thanks again.
Jake Redman on September 23, 2013
Great to hear HHNCARRIE! The seats ARE nice to have if you’re flying Spirit, for sure.