Spirit Airlines adds five more direct Myrtle Beach flights

Earlier this month, Spirit Airlines announced extended direct service to Myrtle Beach Airport that will take effect in May, 2011.

The biggest addition market-wise is Washington D.C.’s Reagan Airport (DCA), which is the District’s close-in airport (Baltimore and Dulles are further outside the city). The remaining four cities added by Spirit are Niagara Falls (near Toronto), Charleston (WV), Latrobe (PA) and Plattsburg (near Albany, NY).

Spirit is becoming Myrtle Beach Airport’s biggest carrier, with existing service to Atlanta, Atlantic City, Boston, Chicago O’Hare, Detroit, New York LaGuardia and Fort Lauderdale. I flew them a lot when I lived in Myrtle Beach, and wasn’t as concerned with airline mileage programs. I was lured into signing up for their $9 fare club before I realized it’s a recurring $9 fee ($59 annual) for the privilege of booking the occasional $9 fare, which was a little too much commitment for me.

The kicker of low-cost Spirit is their baggage policies. To bring a carry-on piece of luggage it’s $30 prepaid or $45 at the gate, and checked baggage (golf clubs included) is $25 domestic each way, which is about inline with most national carriers these days. Personal items like a backpack or purse that fits under your seat is still free. Every time I fly, I mutter a little prayer hoping other airlines don’t follow suit and start charging for carry-ons, but I also can’t help but think it’s inevitable.

If you’re not keen on Spirit and would prefer to fly your regular carrier, US Airways, Continental/United, Delta and American all service MYR, as well as more niche carriers Myrtle Beach Direct Air and AllegiantAir.

To date, Southwest and AirTran do not service Myrtle Beach.