Spirit Airlines announced today that it will begin operations at Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport on October 24. This news comes on the heels of the US Airways, now the New American, increasing the presence of the largest airline in the world in Phoenix and of Volaris Airlines announcing nonstop flights to Mexico starting October 19.

“Phoenix is open for business,” Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton said. “Our economy continues to grow with more visitors and clients traveling to our city and investing in our region. America’s Friendliest Airport serves as a hub of economic growth for Phoenix and we welcome expanded flight options at Sky Harbor.”

Spirit will fly nonstop daily to Dallas/Fort Worth beginning October 24 and add daily service to Chicago O’Hare and Denver International beginning November 7.  DFW is currently served by American/US Airways with 14 daily flights; O’Hare is served by American/US Airways and United with 5 daily flights; Denver is served by US Airways, United, Southwest and Frontier with 24 flights per day.

“These additional flights are evidence that the city and the airport have weathered the tough economic times and are ready for growth,” Phoenix City Manager David Cavazos said. “With their strong presence in Latin America, we hope that these are the first of many domestic and international cities that Spirit will serve from Sky Harbor.”

Spirit Airlines is based in Miramar, Florida and allows customers to save money on travel by offering ultra low base fares with a range of optional services, allowing customers the freedom to choose the extras they value. Spirit’s all-Airbus fleet currently operates flights throughout the U.S., Latin America and Caribbean. The airline will move into Sky Harbor’s north concourse in Terminal 3.

“Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport fits Spirit’s growth strategy by continuing to take customers to the big cities they want to go to at an affordable price,” said Spirit’s Senior Director of Network Planning, Mark Kopczak.  “We look forward to serving even more travelers to and from the Phoenix area with Spirit’s ultra low fares and optional add-ons for a total price that’s tough to beat.”

Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport is among the top 10 busiest airports in the country, with over 1,200 daily nonstop flights to 100 destinations.

“We are delighted to welcome the airline into the Phoenix Sky Harbor family, and to offer passengers additional options to some of their favorite destinations,” said Phoenix Aviation Director, Danny Murphy.