7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024

7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Frontier Airlines Base Fares from Denver to Las Vegas Start at $19

Frontier Airlines is offering Denver to Las Vegas flights for a remarkably low base fare of $19, exclusively for their Discount Den members. This price is good for flights on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays through mid-December of next year. There are some limitations; roundtrip tickets are mandatory and flights need to be booked 7 days ahead. Sadly, the lowest prices aren't available during busy travel periods, with the blackout dates including holidays and popular travel weeks. Frontier is clearly hoping to attract passengers with these deeply discounted fares. As a sweetener, the airline is also adding new routes like service to Reno-Tahoe, launching in March of 2025, all with introductory fares starting at $19. It remains to be seen how long these low-price strategies will last as they can sometimes be part of a wider, more complex pricing structure that can become confusing for travelers.

Frontier Airlines is currently promoting base fares from Denver to Las Vegas starting at just $19, specifically for members of their Discount Den program. These fares are available for travel on specific days of the week, primarily Monday through Thursday and Saturdays, with restrictions until December 19, 2023. The discount appears to be aimed at incentivizing mid-week travel, likely to fill seats during periods of lower demand. The need to book a round trip journey and with a 7-day advance purchase is standard practice for these kinds of ultra-low-cost fares.

However, these low fares are subject to a range of blackout dates, which include holidays and peak travel periods through the end of the year. Interestingly, this promotion extends to Frontier's newer routes, offering a consistent $19 starting point for various destinations, which indicates a strategy to increase network penetration at a competitive price point. Notably, prices outside the promotion, or for non-member travel, already jump to $34. Furthermore, extra fare discounts are applied on certain travel days like Monday and Thursday through March 5, 2025, pushing the strategy of filling specific flights. In addition to the Denver-Las Vegas routes, Frontier plans to begin service to Reno-Tahoe International Airport beginning March 7, 2025, starting at $19, a move consistent with Frontier's broader expansion of its network. The introduction of Reno-Tahoe as a $19 route indicates the strategy of targeting popular destinations that can be served efficiently with their existing fleet of Airbus A320 aircraft.

This $19 promotion exemplifies how airlines strive to manage fluctuating demand and operational costs. By using pricing strategies like a membership program and blackout dates, Frontier attempts to fill flights during less popular times while generating a marketing buzz around ultra-low fares. It is interesting to follow the impact these incentives have on flight volume and the long-term viability of routes that are launched using the low-price promotional model. Whether this tactic is a sustainable strategy for long-term success remains to be seen. Reno-Tahoe is likely a valuable test case to track.

What else is in this post?

1. 7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Frontier Airlines Base Fares from Denver to Las Vegas Start at $19
2. 7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Spirit Airlines Phoenix to Oakland Routes Drop to $29 Each Way
3. 7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Allegiant Air Launches $39 Winter Base Fares from Indianapolis to Tampa
4. 7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Sun Country Airlines Minneapolis to Orlando Tickets Start at $44
5. 7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Breeze Airways Charleston to Providence Base Fares at $45
6. 7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Southwest Airlines Dallas to Houston Routes from $47
7. 7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - JetBlue Long Beach to San Francisco Base Fares from $49

7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Spirit Airlines Phoenix to Oakland Routes Drop to $29 Each Way

Spirit Airlines has recently introduced remarkably low fares on certain routes, including a standout offer of $29 each way for flights between Phoenix and Oakland. This aggressive pricing strategy is part of a broader effort by the airline to navigate ongoing financial difficulties. They're attempting to refocus their operations on more profitable routes and destinations, resulting in the cancellation of several others. While the $29 fare is undeniably attractive to budget travelers, it's important to remember that additional costs for things like baggage and other services can quickly accumulate, potentially diminishing the initial savings.

Spirit's decision to cut routes and its recent financial struggles indicate that they're facing challenges within the industry. Whether these ultra-low fare tactics are a sustainable long-term strategy remains uncertain. The airline landscape is consistently evolving, and it's worth monitoring how these fares affect Spirit's overall business model. The impact on travel patterns and the viability of the routes operated with this promotional pricing approach will be interesting to observe moving forward.

Spirit Airlines is aggressively pursuing a low-cost model, exemplified by their new Phoenix to Oakland route with fares starting at just $29 each way. This price point is remarkably low, even compared to the added costs for services often found on traditional airlines. It’s not merely a marketing tactic, but a calculated move to capture market share from larger carriers on a competitive route like Phoenix to Oakland.


This strategy hinges on Spirit's ultra-low-cost structure where the base fare is tantalizingly low, but various add-on services, like choosing your seat or checking luggage, can significantly inflate the total trip cost. Essentially, the initial $29 price can easily double or even triple with a few add-ons.


Government data on air travel trends suggests that low-cost carriers like Spirit have been instrumental in keeping prices reasonable. Notably, average domestic airfares have shown a modest decrease in recent years, which can be attributed, in part, to increased competition from budget airlines.


The Oakland airport itself has seen a significant increase in passenger traffic, especially among those flying to budget-friendly destinations. This indicates a clear market for affordable travel options connecting cities like Phoenix to Oakland. The geographical proximity between these cities likely makes this route especially desirable for price-conscious business and leisure travelers. Research suggests that a large portion of the travel market favors lower airfares over amenities.


To snag the lowest fares on this route, passengers have to be proactive and plan well in advance. Booking 48 days prior to departure can often save around 25% compared to purchasing last-minute. It's indicative of a broader pattern that budget carriers like Spirit are leading a surge in passenger growth. In fact, they've accounted for a significant chunk of the increase in air travel, particularly in areas like California and the Southwest where the desire for affordable fares seems especially strong.

This new route reveals a broader shift in the airline industry. There's a growing tendency among carriers to connect major cities with leisure destinations, capitalizing on the increased demand for travel following the recent years of shifts in travel behaviors.

While that initial $29 fare is undoubtedly eye-catching, travelers need to carefully weigh the full cost. Fees for extras like seat assignments, preferred boarding, and baggage can easily push the final price well above $100. This is a critical factor to keep in mind when comparing Spirit to other airlines.

7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Allegiant Air Launches $39 Winter Base Fares from Indianapolis to Tampa

Allegiant Air is offering some pretty tempting deals with base fares starting at just $39 for flights from Indianapolis to Tampa this winter. It's part of a larger push where they've added eight new non-stop routes, connecting travelers in smaller cities with popular vacation spots in Florida, including Tampa, Palm Beach and Fort Lauderdale. These $39 fares, available starting this November, seem to be a smart move to capitalize on the expected high travel demand during the winter months. Travelers are increasingly looking for affordable ways to escape to warmer destinations, and Allegiant is positioning itself to meet that need. Allegiant's model of linking smaller and mid-sized cities to major tourist destinations is clearly working as it continues to be a reliable option for budget-conscious travelers. This $39 fare, and the broader trend of airlines offering sub-$50 base fares, shows how competitive the airline industry has become. The bottom line for travelers is that finding cheap flights is becoming easier, and price is definitely a priority for many people deciding on where to travel.

Allegiant Air has introduced a series of new nonstop routes, with introductory fares as low as $39, positioning themselves firmly within the "leisure travel" market. The Indianapolis to Tampa route is a prime example. This focus on leisure destinations, where roughly 78% of their flights are directed, targets value-conscious travelers seeking warm weather getaways.

Tampa International Airport has earned a reputation for high customer satisfaction among US airports, likely due to its functional design and amenities. Allegiant's decision to utilize this hub for its low-cost routes could lead to increased passenger flow and, potentially, more route expansions from the airport.

Looking at fare trends, winter months – especially January and February – generally see the lowest airfares, particularly to destinations like Florida. The timing of Allegiant's promotion coincides with the post-holiday travel period, making these $39 base fares especially appealing for budget travelers.

Allegiant's business model is a hybrid approach that blends aspects of charter and scheduled airline operations, potentially leading to lower operational costs and increased competitiveness on fares compared to traditional carriers.

The average domestic airfare has hovered around $270 for the past several years. Allegiant's $39 promotional fares clearly aim to disrupt the existing pricing model and establish the airline as a significant player in the ultra-low-cost carrier space.

Roughly 90% of Allegiant's routes are operated as nonstop flights, a feature favored by many travelers who prioritize efficiency and speed over layovers. This aspect of convenience adds a significant layer of appeal to their offerings.

The growing popularity of budget travel has driven a remarkable 22% surge in passenger volume among low-cost carriers. It suggests a shift in traveler preferences toward more affordable travel options, which benefits airlines like Allegiant.

Research reveals a clear trend where leisure travelers are placing more emphasis on affordability than amenities. This tendency is fertile ground for ultra-low-cost carriers to flourish in a highly competitive marketplace.

Tampa's appeal isn't limited to vacationers; the city is experiencing a real estate boom, drawing in remote workers and digital nomads. Lower airfares from places like Indianapolis could bolster this trend by encouraging longer stays.

Finally, Allegiant's strategy of using secondary airports like Indianapolis and Tampa often translates to reduced operational costs and less congestion. This can lead to faster turnaround times, potentially improving the reliability of service and, as a result, increase overall customer satisfaction.

7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Sun Country Airlines Minneapolis to Orlando Tickets Start at $44

Sun Country Airlines has some appealing fares for those looking to travel from Minneapolis to Orlando, with prices starting at just $44 for specific flights. If you're flexible and plan your trip around April, you can find average ticket prices hovering around $79. This makes it a potentially good time to head down to Orlando and enjoy its famous theme parks, diverse entertainment scene, and other attractions. Be aware, though, that flight prices can jump significantly during peak travel times, especially in June and October. While the advertised low base fare is attractive, you need to factor in the potential for extra charges that can bump up the final cost. This strategy reflects a broader trend among airlines who are recognizing a strong demand from budget-minded passengers seeking affordable travel options.

Sun Country Airlines' $44 fares from Minneapolis to Orlando are a noteworthy example of how airlines are attempting to stay competitive in a market where base fares have seen a rise in recent years. This price point signifies their strategic approach to attract travelers who are prioritizing affordability, making air travel more accessible in times of increasing living expenses.


Their operational model centers around efficient route selection and a predominantly Boeing 737 aircraft fleet, allowing them to operate at lower costs while catering to the popular Orlando leisure market. This structure suggests a viable path to profitability for airlines pursuing a focus on cost efficiency.


However, like many low-cost airlines, Sun Country generates revenue through additional fees for services like checked bags. The $44 base fare is an enticing entry point, but the actual cost can quickly escalate with added baggage fees and other services, potentially doubling or tripling the original ticket price. This pricing model highlights a tradeoff for travelers who need certain amenities.


Interestingly, the proliferation of ultra-low fares has changed consumer behavior, causing passengers to shift their travel preferences towards lower-cost options. Studies show that more people are opting for airlines like Sun Country instead of traditional full-service carriers, which presents a major shift in the passenger landscape. This is a noteworthy trend to keep an eye on as it impacts major carriers’ market share.


Airlines like Sun Country prioritize maximizing flight occupancy, as a higher load factor reduces cost per seat and improves profitability. They utilize operational methods and analytics to optimize their booking strategy for achieving higher load factors, a valuable tactic to maintain their low fare structure.


Their fare structure reacts to typical seasonal travel fluctuations, especially on routes like Minneapolis to Orlando. These fare adjustments are a standard practice in the industry, wherein pricing is modified based on past data and peak travel seasons. This strategy allows the airline to potentially maximize revenue through dynamically adjusted pricing throughout the year.


Sun Country has invested in advanced booking systems to enhance their customer experience and booking efficiency. Studies demonstrate a positive correlation between airlines using advanced technology and customer satisfaction. Even though the core product is about low fares, having an easy-to-use reservation system can lead to improved loyalty and higher customer retention.


Airlines are expanding their route networks, including Sun Country Airlines, which has been adding more non-stop flights to popular leisure destinations. This trend reflects a clear shift in traveler preferences towards direct flights, which aligns well with Sun Country's strategy of offering budget-friendly, yet convenient options.


The implementation of loyalty programs is also a strategy Sun Country has undertaken. Even in a primarily low-fare market, research shows loyalty programs can increase customer retention, encouraging return flights and building stronger brand allegiance.


The surge in leisure travel has significantly benefited budget-friendly airlines like Sun Country. As forecasts predict continued growth in this sector, Sun Country's $44 base fare offering seems poised to remain a competitive element within this market. With the appeal of low-priced travel, particularly amongst a segment of consumers valuing affordable vacation options, this airline appears to be in a strong position moving forward.

7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Breeze Airways Charleston to Providence Base Fares at $45

Breeze Airways is offering a compelling deal for travelers seeking affordable flights between Charleston and Providence, with base fares starting as low as $45. This initiative aligns with Breeze's overall strategy of attracting travelers looking for budget-friendly options, particularly during periods of increased travel like the upcoming holiday season.

To further entice passengers, Breeze is currently running a promotional code, "EPIC," that can unlock up to 60% off base fares on roundtrip itineraries. This offer is valid for a limited time, and travellers will need to book their flights by a specified deadline.

Breeze continues to expand its presence in the northeast with service from Charleston to Providence. The airline's focus on direct routes and affordable fares positions it as a competitor in the increasingly crowded low-cost airline market. The direct Charleston to Providence flight is estimated to take just over 2 hours, a feature that will likely be appealing to leisure and business travelers alike who value convenience alongside low fares. The aggressive pricing strategy used by Breeze suggests the ongoing fight amongst airlines to attract price-conscious travellers. It remains to be seen if Breeze's route expansion in the region and aggressive pricing can deliver long term success, but its focus on low-cost travel continues to be a draw for those looking for affordable options.

Breeze Airways has established a pricing model that centers around a transparent approach to fares. They've introduced what they call "Nice" fares, which clearly show that add-on costs for things like baggage and seat selection can impact the initial low price. This upfront transparency aims to prevent any unexpected costs at checkout.

The $45 base fare from Charleston to Providence stands out, notably lower than the national average of roughly $270 for domestic flights. This suggests Breeze Airways is attempting to attract a price-sensitive segment of the travel market while also pushing other airlines on similar routes to become more competitive.

Breeze's operational efficiency is tied to their choice of aircraft – primarily Embraer and Airbus models. These aircraft are known for their fuel efficiency and lower operating costs, both of which are essential for supporting consistently low base fares and maintaining profitability.

The airline's strategy of focusing on smaller airports, such as Charleston International and T.F. Green Airport in Providence, likely contributes to their lower costs. Operating from these less congested airports can lead to shorter turnaround times, potentially improving service reliability. This is a key aspect of keeping customers happy and encouraging repeat business.

Breeze cleverly leverages off-peak travel times to maximize the effectiveness of their low fare strategy. They've likely analyzed historical demand patterns and discovered that offering these lower base fares during less popular travel periods can fill more seats and increase revenue.

Breeze's pricing approach aligns with a growing trend within the airline industry. Airlines are using attractive base fares to compete for market share. Research indicates that this strategy is working, with budget airlines experiencing a significant surge in passenger numbers, something in the range of 20% in recent years. This shift in the passenger landscape presents both challenges and opportunities for all airlines.

The actual price of a $45 ticket might depend on how far in advance you book. Studies indicate that securing flights 2-3 months before the departure date can reduce the overall cost considerably, in some cases by up to 30%. This is an important consideration for travelers who want to truly maximize value.

Breeze also runs a variety of promotional fares, clearly a tactic to optimize flight occupancy, especially on routes that aren't as popular. This dynamic pricing approach enables them to improve operational efficiency while still keeping fares appealing for those seeking affordable travel options.

Passenger traffic at Providence airport has been steadily increasing, especially among those interested in relatively affordable trips to destinations in the southern US. This increased demand aligns with Breeze's strategy and provides additional evidence that the airline's focus on lower fares is effective and is likely to contribute to increased connectivity for Charleston residents and others.

Breeze is actively expanding its network of routes. Industry analysts suggest that this expansion strategy will only strengthen the airline's ability to offer consistently low fares. The ability to increase the number of destinations will likely enhance Breeze's competitiveness in a market where air travel is constantly evolving.

7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - Southwest Airlines Dallas to Houston Routes from $47

Southwest Airlines is currently offering flights between Dallas and Houston for as little as $47. This makes it a pretty tempting option for anyone looking to travel between these two major Texas cities without breaking the bank. The route, which runs between Dallas Love Field and Houston Hobby, operates with a decent schedule of 14 weekly flights, making travel planning fairly flexible. The actual flight time is only around an hour and 10 minutes, making it a quick and easy way to jump between Dallas and Houston.

Southwest, known for its low fares and a focus on customer service, is a good choice if you want to avoid any surprises. They offer same-day flight changes without charging extra, a perk for those who might need some flexibility on their travel plans. That said, like many budget carriers, Southwest is designed to make money with various add-on services. While the base fare of $47 might seem irresistible, there is a danger of accidentally increasing the cost of the trip with options like baggage or early boarding.


The competitive landscape within the airline industry is changing and many airlines are now focusing on keeping base fares low to attract more customers. This, in turn, has put more pressure on some of the legacy airlines to re-think their pricing strategies. It’s interesting to see how this plays out in the long term for airlines that have historically focused on a higher level of service and more comprehensive ticket inclusions. It remains to be seen whether it will benefit travelers or just change the way the game is played in the air travel industry.

Here are ten interesting observations about Southwest Airlines' Dallas to Houston routes priced from $47, which adds to the broader picture of sub-$50 base fares being offered in 2024:


1. **A Route with Historical Importance:** The Dallas to Houston route is a heavily traveled one within the United States, and it's a key link between two major Texas cities. The economic significance of this route, both for Dallas and Houston, is hard to overestimate.

2. **A Question of Time**: The flight time of just over an hour makes air travel a viable alternative to driving, which can often take more than four hours, depending on traffic conditions. The convenience of this route, due to the shorter flight time, is a key factor driving the demand.

3. **Aircraft in Action:** The Southwest fleet for this route is usually comprised of the Boeing 737, which has a good reputation for its fuel economy and dependability. This helps explain how Southwest can offer such low fares while keeping a decent profit margin on each flight.

4. **The Frequency Effect**: Southwest runs several flights daily between the two cities, making this one of the airline's most frequently flown routes. This kind of competition has pushed other carriers to reduce fares to stay competitive, benefitting the traveling public.

5. **The Price Game**: The $47 base fare could be a purposeful pricing strategy, a way to make sure seats are full, especially on a route where competition is tough. This kind of pricing is controlled by airline revenue management systems which use complex algorithms and data to predict demand and optimize prices.

6. **Growth Plans**: Since 2023, Southwest has been on an expansion path, bringing new routes into their network and increasing flight frequency on existing routes. This demonstrates a clear strategy to dominate the Texas intrastate market.

7. **Loyalty Pays**: Many Southwest passengers are members of their Rapid Rewards program, which rewards frequent flyers with points they can use for future flights. This creates a compelling incentive to choose Southwest even if the difference in fares is relatively small compared to competitors.

8. **How Passengers Decide**: Studies suggest that consumers are increasingly likely to pick airlines that offer a combination of low fares and some of the basics, such as seat selection or checked luggage. The popularity of the Dallas-Houston route reinforces the strong interest in inexpensive air travel options.

9. **Controlling Costs**: Southwest uses a point-to-point operational system which helps them lower overall operating costs. This ability to keep operational costs low is important, especially on relatively short routes where the potential profit margin on each passenger is comparatively small.

10. **Culinary Crossroads**: Both Dallas and Houston are considered foodie destinations. The easy access between the two cities afforded by air travel allows travelers to experience two vibrant food cultures within just a few hours, illustrating the importance of easy travel when exploring local cuisines.

7 US Airlines That Consistently Offer Sub-$50 Base Fares in 2024 - JetBlue Long Beach to San Francisco Base Fares from $49

JetBlue has introduced some attractive base fares for flights between Long Beach and San Francisco, starting at just $49 for a roundtrip. This is a tempting deal for anyone seeking an affordable way to travel between these Californian cities. The airline also offers nonstop flights for as low as $69, specifically for trips through mid-July, making them competitive on this route. While those fares look appealing, it's good to remember that average prices for the same route currently hover around $281. This highlights the importance of securing one of the lower fares by booking early. It's interesting to see how JetBlue's aggressive pricing strategy plays out in the long run, especially in light of other carriers operating the same route like Southwest and Alaska Airlines. The overall airline landscape is continually changing, and it's worth watching how JetBlue's approach to price-sensitive travelers reshapes the market.

### JetBlue's Long Beach to San Francisco Base Fares from $49: A Closer Look

1. **Fares Over Time:** Historically, economy class fares between Long Beach and San Francisco have generally hovered around the $100 mark. JetBlue's introduction of $49 base fares represents a substantial price drop, which highlights the increasingly competitive nature of the airline industry.

2. **Coastal Travel Trends:** The Long Beach to San Francisco route doesn't just appeal to leisure travelers; it's also a significant route for business trips. Recent travel patterns show that roughly 35% of passengers on this route are traveling for business, emphasizing the importance of affordable fares for corporate travel budgets.

3. **Flight Frequency**: JetBlue maintains a robust presence on this route, often operating more than 10 flights daily between the two cities. This high frequency not only offers passengers more travel flexibility but likely also contributes to operational efficiency by helping them fill seats more consistently.

4. **Aircraft Choice and Fuel Efficiency**: JetBlue primarily uses Airbus A320 aircraft on this route, known for their relatively lower fuel consumption compared to older aircraft models. This fuel efficiency likely contributes to their ability to offer lower base fares while retaining a healthy profit margin.

5. **Promotional Strategies and Peak Travel:** The $49 base fare is often tied to seasonal promotions. Research suggests that airlines can see a significant increase in flight bookings – up to 20% – during certain travel periods when deeply discounted fares are offered. JetBlue likely utilizes this strategy during less popular travel times to fill seats.

6. **Behind the Fares: Revenue Management Systems**: Airlines employ sophisticated algorithms, known as revenue management systems, to dynamically set prices on individual routes. It's likely that JetBlue's pricing for the Long Beach to San Francisco route is subject to such adjustments, influenced by factors like past flight data and competitor pricing.

7. **Boosting Regional Travel**: The availability of remarkably low fares fosters connections between two significant communities, potentially increasing overall domestic travel by making these flights more accessible. Data suggests that increases in frequency and reduced fares can often lead to a rise in consumer travel, potentially around 15%, on less frequently traveled routes.

8. **Customer Experience Matters**: JetBlue has a reputation for providing a better customer experience with complimentary snacks, more legroom, and other amenities. Offering low-cost tickets while also maintaining a focus on comfort could help JetBlue stand out among the budget carriers, promoting passenger loyalty.

9. **Booking Strategies**: Research on passenger behavior reveals that booking with low-cost carriers like JetBlue at least 30 days in advance can translate to significant savings, often around 20%. This emphasizes the impact of JetBlue's pricing strategy on travel planning.

10. **The Competitive Landscape**: Southwest and Alaska Airlines have historically held a considerable share of the California air travel market. JetBlue's introduction of sub-$50 fares could force these competitors to adjust their own pricing strategies, potentially leading to a shift in the competitive landscape among airlines serving this region.