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title: Spirit Airlines Denied Boarding issue – what to do?

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# Spirit Airlines Denied Boarding issue – what to do?

Denied boarding on Spirit Airlines? Call +1-888-760-1051 for help. Stay calm, know your rights, seek compensation, and rebook. 

Denied boarding is an unexpected and frustrating situation, especially when it affects your travel plans with an airline like Spirit Airlines. While Spirit is known for its low-cost fares and no-frills service, it occasionally overbooks flights—like many other airlines—which may lead to some passengers being denied boarding. Whether the issue was voluntary or involuntary, it's crucial to know your rights, what compensation you’re entitled to, and what actions to take. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know if you're denied boarding on a Spirit Airlines flight.

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### **What Does Denied Boarding Mean?**

Denied boarding occurs when an airline refuses to allow a passenger to board a flight, even though they hold a confirmed reservation. There are generally two types of denied boarding situations:

1. **Voluntary Denied Boarding** – This happens when Spirit Airlines asks for volunteers to give up their seats due to overbooking. Volunteers are usually compensated in the form of vouchers, cash, or other benefits.

2. **Involuntary Denied Boarding** – This occurs when the airline denies boarding to passengers without their consent, typically because there aren’t enough volunteers or due to operational issues.

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### **Why Does Spirit Airlines Deny Boarding?**

Denied boarding can happen for several reasons:

* **Overbooked Flights:** Like most airlines, Spirit may overbook flights to compensate for no-shows.
* **Late Check-In or Arrival:** If you don’t check in on time or arrive late at the gate, you may lose your seat.
* **Documentation Issues:** Invalid or mismatched ID or travel documents can result in denied boarding.
* **Aircraft Downsizing:** If Spirit switches to a smaller plane, fewer seats are available.
* **Operational or Safety Reasons:** Flight crew decisions for weight balancing or safety concerns can also lead to denied boarding.

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### **What to Do If You’re Denied Boarding**

Here are the essential steps you should take if you find yourself denied boarding by Spirit Airlines:

#### **1. Stay Calm and Ask for an Explanation**

First, approach the gate agent or customer service and ask why you’ve been denied boarding. If it’s due to overbooking, clarify whether your case is voluntary or involuntary. Get everything in writing if possible.

#### **2. Know Your Rights**

If you are involuntarily denied boarding and meet all check-in and boarding time requirements, you may be eligible for compensation under the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations. Spirit Airlines must provide written notice of your rights, including:

* Rebooking on the next available flight
* Monetary compensation based on the length of the delay and fare
* Meal or hotel vouchers if overnight delay is required

#### **3. Request Rebooking Options**

Spirit Airlines is required to rebook you on the next available flight. If their next flight is hours away or the same day flight is not possible, ask if they can accommodate you on a partner airline (if applicable). Be sure to confirm:

* Flight time and confirmation
* Seat availability
* Whether baggage will transfer automatically

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### **DOT Compensation Rules for Involuntary Denied Boarding**

Under DOT guidelines, the compensation you receive depends on how delayed your arrival at the destination will be:

* **No compensation** if you are rebooked to arrive within **one hour** of your original arrival time.
* **200% of your one-way fare (up to \$775)** if the arrival delay is between **1 and 2 hours** domestically, or **1 to 4 hours** internationally.
* **400% of your one-way fare (up to \$1,550)** if the arrival delay exceeds **2 hours** domestically, or **4 hours** internationally.

This compensation is typically paid via check or electronic payment at the airport. Always ask if you’re eligible for cash over travel vouchers.

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### **Voluntary Denied Boarding Compensation**

If you volunteer to give up your seat, Spirit may offer compensation such as:

* Spirit credit vouchers
* Travel waivers
* Meal or hotel vouchers if your rebooked flight is the next day

Before accepting, clarify:

* Voucher expiration dates and blackout periods
* Whether vouchers are transferable
* If there are limits on how or when you can use them

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### **File a Complaint if Needed**

If you believe that you were denied boarding unfairly, or if Spirit Airlines failed to provide the appropriate compensation, you can file a complaint through:

* **Spirit Airlines’ customer service** at their website or airport help desk
* **The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT)** via [www.transportation.gov/airconsumer](https://www.transportation.gov/airconsumer)

Keeping your boarding pass, receipts, and written statements from airline agents will support your claim.

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### **Tips to Avoid Denied Boarding**

While you can’t always avoid being denied boarding, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:

* **Check in as early as possible.** Spirit allows online check-in 24 hours before departure.
* **Arrive at the gate early.** Spirit usually starts boarding 30 minutes before departure, and gates close 15 minutes prior.
* **Book direct flights** and avoid tight layovers.
* **Join Spirit’s loyalty program (Free Spirit)** to increase your priority status.
* **Avoid basic fares during peak travel times**, which are more likely to be overbooked.

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### **Can You Refuse to Give Up Your Seat?**

If you're selected for involuntary denied boarding, you have limited options unless you qualify for priority exemptions (e.g., passengers with disabilities, unaccompanied minors). However, if you’re asked to volunteer, you’re under no obligation to give up your seat.

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### **Contact Spirit Airlines for Help**

For real-time help with denied boarding situations, flight changes, or compensation claims, you can always contact Spirit Airlines directly. You can also call **++1-888-760-1051** for assistance with:

* Rebooking your flight
* Understanding your compensation rights
* Lodging a complaint or follow-up claim

Customer support professionals can guide you through the entire process quickly and effectively.