KEY WEST, FL — In a move set to significantly boost intrastate connectivity and support Florida’s tourism growth, Spirit Airlines has announced a new nonstop service linking Key West International Airport (EYW) with Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). The service will begin November 6, 2025, operating four times a week before ramping up to daily flights starting December 18, just ahead of the peak holiday travel season.
This new route further cements Spirit’s role in connecting Florida’s most visited cities and will establish Key West as the airline’s eighth in-state destination. With existing flights already operating from Fort Lauderdale to major cities including Orlando, Miami, Tampa, and Pensacola, the Key West connection completes a strategic intrastate network aimed at both Floridians and inbound travelers from across the U.S.
A Game-Changer for Key West and South Florida Tourism
Known for its pastel architecture, historic charm, and beachside allure, Key West is a premier getaway for both domestic and international tourists. With the addition of this nonstop service, visitors will enjoy greater access to the island without the long drives or connecting flights often required to reach the southernmost point of the continental U.S.
“Nonstop flights from Fort Lauderdale will significantly enhance access to Key West, opening the door for more weekend getaways and smoother business travel,” said Richard Strickland, Director of Airports at Monroe County, in a statement released by the Key West Chamber of Commerce. “This will bring a measurable uptick in visitor traffic and economic activity during both high and shoulder seasons.”
Travelers will now be able to explore Key West’s major attractions—including Duval Street, Ernest Hemingway Home, Mallory Square, and Dry Tortugas National Park—with much more ease, boosting day-trip and weekend travel options.
Boosting Business and Leisure Travel Across Florida
Spirit’s expanded route also creates seamless access for residents of the Florida Keys to reach Fort Lauderdale, and from there, connect to the airline’s extensive network including cities like New York, Boston, Dallas, Atlanta, and Los Angeles.
According to Visit Florida’s 2024 tourism report, the state welcomed over 137 million visitors—a record number fueled in part by improved air access and demand for domestic leisure travel. With Spirit’s Key West route, that trend is likely to continue upward.
“This direct service reflects our broader strategy to offer affordable, convenient options to both leisure and business travelers across Florida,” said Spirit Airlines spokesperson Michael Napolitano. “It’s not just about reaching destinations—it’s about doing so comfortably and economically.”
Spirit Airlines: A New Era of Affordable Comfort
The launch of this route coincides with Spirit’s shift toward higher-tier offerings. Following its emergence from Chapter 11 bankruptcy earlier in 2025, Spirit Airlines introduced a premium refresh to its onboard services. Upgrades include Wi-Fi availability, larger seats under its new “Spirit Stretch” cabin class, and enhanced food and beverage options.
The rebranding is part of CEO Dave Davis’s larger plan to re-establish Spirit as a value-driven airline that does not compromise on comfort. Davis, formerly of Sun Country Airlines, took the reins from longtime CEO Ted Christie and has quickly led the carrier through recovery and repositioning.
“We are not abandoning low-cost,” Davis told aviation analysts at the 2025 Routes Americas Conference in San Juan. “We’re raising the bar for what budget travel looks like in this decade.”
Economic Impact for the Florida Keys
From a tourism and economic development perspective, this new route is poised to benefit the Florida Keys tremendously. According to the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, tourism accounts for over 60% of the Key West economy, supporting thousands of jobs in hospitality, dining, and local services.
The more direct access from Fort Lauderdale—Spirit’s second-largest operating hub—will likely drive up visitor volume during the winter season, when occupancy rates already reach 85–90%. The added convenience may also encourage more repeat visits and off-season travel, contributing to year-round economic stability for local businesses.
What This Means for Florida Travel in 2025
- Better Connectivity – Fort Lauderdale is a major springboard for travelers heading to Latin America, the Caribbean, and other parts of Florida. This new flight strengthens that hub status while improving access to Florida’s southernmost destination.
- Time-Saving – Travelers previously faced a 3.5-hour drive or multi-stop itineraries to reach Key West. The nonstop flight will cut total travel time by more than half.
- Environmental Efficiency – With increased air access, more travelers can avoid long road trips, reducing overall vehicle emissions and congestion on US-1.
Looking Ahead
The Key West–Fort Lauderdale route represents more than a new flight. It’s a strategic investment in Florida’s growing intrastate travel demand. By offering a faster, affordable, and more comfortable way to explore one of the state’s most iconic destinations, Spirit Airlines is positioning itself as a leader in regional connectivity and post-pandemic tourism revival.
Whether it’s for a relaxing beach weekend, a deep-sea fishing expedition, or simply soaking up the Conch Republic’s laid-back vibe, getting to Key West is now easier than ever.
As bookings open for the November launch, Spirit’s new route may well become one of the most popular short-haul domestic flights in the Sunshine State.
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