Windsor Locks, CT — June 17, 2025:
Travelers flying out of Bradley International Airport (BDL) in Connecticut will now enjoy expanded domestic connectivity, thanks to Spirit Airlines‘ newly launched nonstop services to two major U.S. cities: Detroit, Michigan and Nashville, Tennessee. This strategic expansion reinforces Bradley’s growing status as a regional air travel hub and aligns with Spirit’s broader network growth across North America.
According to an announcement from the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA), Spirit Airlines inaugurated its daily direct flight to Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW) on June 12, 2025. In a further boost to the airport’s destination roster, the airline will begin offering nonstop service to Nashville International Airport (BNA) starting August 14, 2025.
Strengthening Spirit Airlines’ Presence in the Northeast
With these new routes, Spirit Airlines continues to build its footprint in the Northeastern U.S., making it easier for travelers in Connecticut and neighboring states to access key urban centers in the Midwest and South. The Detroit and Nashville flights are expected to serve both leisure and business travelers, while also enhancing options for passengers connecting to Spirit’s extensive domestic and Latin American network.
Spirit’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Matt Klein, stated in a media release:
“We’re excited to grow our presence at Bradley and provide affordable, nonstop service to Detroit and Nashville—two vibrant cities with strong cultural appeal and business ties. These routes also create new connection opportunities throughout our broader network.”
Detroit and Nashville: Gateways to Culture and Commerce
Detroit and Nashville are not only popular destinations in their own right but also serve as gateways to broader travel in the United States. Detroit, often called “Motor City,” is a hub for automotive history, sports, and music, while Nashville, known as “Music City,” attracts millions of visitors annually with its lively country music scene, historical landmarks, and culinary offerings.
Beyond local tourism appeal, both destinations serve as critical nodes in Spirit Airlines’ connectivity matrix, offering onward travel to other cities such as Chicago, Las Vegas, Orlando, and Dallas through seamless connections.
Enhanced Regional Access for Connecticut Travelers
The addition of these new routes marks a significant development for Bradley International Airport, which is strategically located between Hartford, Connecticut and Springfield, Massachusetts. The airport has seen a steady rise in traffic as it diversifies its route portfolio post-pandemic.
Kevin A. Dillon, A.A.E., Executive Director of the Connecticut Airport Authority, welcomed the announcement, noting:
“Spirit’s continued investment in Bradley International Airport provides our passengers with convenient and cost-effective travel options. These new destinations are part of our ongoing efforts to expand service and meet growing passenger demand.”
The Connecticut Airport Authority has been actively attracting low-cost carriers and expanding its route map, aiming to turn Bradley into a competitive alternative to larger airports in New York and Boston.
Schedule and Booking Information
- BDL to DTW (Detroit): Daily nonstop service began on June 12, 2025
- BDL to BNA (Nashville): Daily nonstop service begins on August 14, 2025
Passengers can already book flights on Spirit.com or through affiliated travel platforms. As with other Spirit flights, travelers have access to ultra-low base fares, with additional options for customized add-ons such as seat selection, baggage, and in-flight services.
Bradley International’s Growth Trajectory
Bradley International Airport has steadily rebounded from the pandemic slump, and recent investments in terminal upgrades, security enhancements, and passenger amenities are beginning to pay off. Earlier in 2025, the airport welcomed new services to major hubs including Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, and Charlotte, and it now boasts a mix of domestic and limited international routes served by low-cost and full-service carriers.
The airport currently serves over 7 million passengers annually and is a key part of the region’s infrastructure, supporting economic development, tourism, and employment across New England.
About Spirit Airlines
Founded in 1980, Spirit Airlines (NYSE: SAVE) is known for its budget-friendly model, offering unbundled fare pricing across the U.S., Latin America, and the Caribbean. The airline operates an all-Airbus fleet and focuses on efficiency and affordability, particularly for value-conscious travelers.
As of mid-2025, Spirit operates over 600 daily flights to more than 90 destinations, with major operational bases in cities like Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, Las Vegas, and Dallas–Fort Worth.
Conclusion
With the launch of direct flights from Bradley International Airport to Detroit and Nashville, Spirit Airlines continues to broaden its domestic reach and offer Northeast travelers greater flexibility and affordability. These new routes strengthen the role of Bradley Airport as a regional gateway while connecting passengers to two dynamic American cities with significant business, tourism, and cultural importance.
Whether flying for work or leisure, travelers in Connecticut now have more reasons to choose Bradley International as their preferred point of departure.
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