Spirit Airlines, the largest privately-held airline in the U.S., announces new service from McCarran International Airport in Las Vegas starting December 19, 2002. Spirit will offer daily non-stop service from McCarran International Airport to Chicago/O’Hare with connecting service to Orlando, Fla.

Introductory Fare Specials - $79 and $99

Fares between Chicago/O’Hare and Las Vegas begin at $79. Fares between Orlando and Las Vegas begin at $99.

These introductory fares are good for travel between December 19, 2002 and February 11, 2003. These fares must be purchased by December 12, 2002. Fares are each way based on round-trip purchase and do not include $3.00 segment fees (a segment is defined as a takeoff and a landing), passenger facility charges of up to $18.00 round trip depending on itinerary and government imposed September 11th security fees of $2.50 per segment. Seats are limited and restrictions apply.

“We’re pleased to be expanding our service to and from Las Vegas. In light of National Airlines’ cessation of service, we are hopeful that we can be of assistance to passengers looking to book for the holidays and beyond,” said Tom Anderson, senior vice president and chief marketing officer

“Spirit is well known for its low-fares, friendly and reliable service. Now our friends in Orlando and Chicago can experience Spirit to America’s favorite playground - Las Vegas,” continued Anderson.

About Spirit Airlines Headquartered in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., Spirit Airlines is the largest privately-held airline in the U.S. With a fleet of modern aircraft for scheduled and charter service, Spirit serves Atlantic City, N.J., Chicago/O’Hare, Denver, Detroit, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Myrtle Beach, S.C., New York/LaGuardia, Oakland, Calif., San Juan, Puerto Rico and the Florida cities of Fort Lauderdale, Fort Myers, Orlando, Tampa and West Palm Beach (seasonal service). Spirit’s website is www.spiritair.com.

Spirit currently operates 90 flights to 14 cities/markets in the United States and recently announced Spirit Plus, an upgraded coach class of service, including wide leather seats in two by two seating, dedicated check-in, complimentary cocktails and snacks, priority boarding and more, all without sacrificing low fares. The upgrade fee, available day of departure at any Spirit Airlines ticket counter, is $40 per segment. Spirit Plus seats are also available in advance on a non-refundable or refundable basis

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