msp airport spirit airlines terminal
Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport (MSP) is a hub for a multitude of carriers, but for travelers seeking a budget-friendly option, Spirit Airlines offers a direct route to numerous domestic and international destinations. Understanding the layout, services, and best practices for flying Spirit out of MSP can save you time and money on your trip. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the Spirit Airlines terminal at MSP like a pro.
Where Is Spirit Airlines at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport?
Spirit’s operations at MSP are consolidated in Terminal B – the Southwest flight line. The airline’s gates are located on the B floor, sharing the same passenger concourse with Southwest Airlines. Here’s a quick rundown:
- Gate 3 – Popular for flights to Orlando, Denver, and Phoenix
- Gate 6 – Handles routes to Atlanta, New Orleans, and Washington D.C.
- Gate 11 – Serves the West Coast (San Diego, Seattle) and select Midwest hubs
Tip: If you’re traveling on a Spirit flight during peak hours (morning or late evening), check the gate on the arrivals board as early as 45 minutes before departure. Gates can change due to flight delays or operational requirements.
Getting to Spirit Airlines: Quick Tips & Best Practices
H3: Security, Baggage, and Boarding
- Security Check‑In: Spirit’s unusual carry‑on policy requires you to check your bag in at the gate if it exceeds the size limits—perfectly arranged for faster boarding.
- Check-In Kiosks: A dedicated Spirit kiosk sits on the B floor at the entrance to Terminal B, letting you print boarding passes in under a minute.
- Boarding Time: Boarding begins 45 minutes before departure. Give yourself ample time to navigate the terminal and carry your items onto the plane—nothing slips across boundaries on a tight schedule.
H3: Packing Essentials for Low‑Cost Flights
- Carry‑On Size: 12" × 9" × 9" is the maximum for free carry‑on. Stick to a small backpack or duffel.
- Add-On Fees: Any checked baggage, extra legroom or an in‑flight meal will be added to the fare. Aim to carry all essentials to avoid the $60 or $90 bag fees.
Spotlight on Spirit Airlines Services at MSP
H3: Onboard Experience
- Seat Selection: Spirit offers a “Standard” cabin with no seat selection for a discounted fare. Premium “Extra Legroom” seats are available for $12‑$20—a value depending on your personal preference.
- Inflight Comfort: The cabin’s 37.5‑inch seat pitch is below average, but you can stretch your legs on the packed airport luggage carts in the terminal.
H3: In‑Flight Entertainment & Connectivity
- Wi‑Fi: Spans 457 Mbps; the price starts at $20 for 30 minutes.
- Onboard Apps: an unedited list of available movies and music on the “Spirit Vanguard” digital platform, free for a limited selection.
Comparing Spirit Airlines with Other Low‑Cost Carriers at MSP
| Factor | Spirit Airlines | Frontier Airlines | Southwest Airlines | AirTran (now Delta) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Terminal | B – Gate 3, 6, 11 | A – Gates 1‑5 | B – Entire B floor | None (waived) |
| Basic Fare | $0 (no in‑flight meals) | $0 (no meals, checked bag fees) | $0 (free seat selection) | $0 |
| Checked Baggage Policy | $40 ($60 luggage) | Free up to 1 bag (up to 50 lbs) | $0 (first bag free) | Free up to 50 lbs |
| Seat Selection | Optional (Extra Legroom) | No seat selection | Free seat selection | Free seat selection |
| On‑board Entertainment | Wi‑Fi • In‑flight apps | None | In‑flight entertainment available | In‑flight entertainment |
| Entertainment Cost (Wi‑Fi) | $20 for 30 min | $30 for 30 min | $0 | $0 |
| Seat Pitch | 30‑31" (standard) | 30‑31" | 33‑35" | 33‑35" |
Bottom Line: Spirit offers the absolute lowest base fare but pairs it with higher ancillary costs. Southwest provides a better overall experience with free bags and seats, at a moderate price increase. Frontier sits between the two, offering a very economical base fare with more generous baggage limits than Spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does Spirit have a dedicated counter at MSP? | No, the same clean curbside counter services both Southwest and Spirit. |
| Can I purchase a seat in advance? | Yes, seat selection can be added during the booking process or 24 hours after checking-in via the airline’s website or mobile app. |
| How do I add a carry‑on bag on Spirit? | Carry‑on must not exceed 12" × 9" × 9". For any bag larger, it must be checked in at the gate and will incur additional fees. |
| Is there an in‑flight meal available? | Yes, Spirit’s “Spirit Fev” is a popcorn snack for $1.80. For in‑flight dining, you may purchase items at the gate or in the cabin at additional cost. |
Credible Sources
- Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport – Official Site – https://www.airrt.org
- Spirit Airlines – Operating Hours & Gates – https://www.spirit.com
- FlightStats – Airport Information – https://www.flightstats.com
- Travel + Leisure – Low-Cost Carriers Ranking – https://www.travelandleisure.com
- The Points Guy – Spirit vs Other LCCs – https://thepointsguy.com
Disclaimer: All information is accurate as of October 2025. Frequency of changes to gates, services, and airline policies requires travelers to verify details on the airlines’ and airport’s official websites before flight times.
