Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport  is Spirit Airlines' primary operational hub and one of the airline's busiest locations in the United States. If you're traveling with Spirit through FLL, you'll most likely be using Terminal 4, which is located on the south side of the airport. Spirit Airlines FLL Terminal handles the majority of Spirit's domestic and international flights, especially those to the Caribbean and Latin America. Understanding the layout, processes, and amenities available can help make your journey smoother and less stressful.

Check-In and Departures at Terminal 4

The departure level of Terminal 4 is where you'll begin your journey. Spirit Airlines offers multiple check-in options:

  • Self-Service Kiosks – Convenient for printing boarding passes, bag tags, and making last-minute seat selections.
  • Full-Service Counters – Staffed by Spirit representatives for travelers who need extra assistance or who have complex travel needs

Spirit Airlines Baggage Rules to Know Before Arriving

Spirit operates under an ultra-low-cost model, which means the base ticket includes only one personal item that fits under the seat. Anything larger counts as a carry-on and must be purchased separately. Checked luggage is also an additional charge.

Tips for baggage at FLL:

  • Measure before you go – Spirit staff strictly enforce size limits.
  • Buy in advance – Luggage fees are cheaper online than at the airport.
  • Gate checks are possible – If overhead bins fill up, you may be asked to gate-check your carry-on.

Security Screening in Terminal 4

Once you've checked in and handled your luggage, security is the next step. Terminal 4 has several TSA security lanes, including a TSA PreCheck option for eligible travelers.

Security wait times vary, but mornings and weekends tend to be busier due to cruise passengers and vacationers. Here are a few pointers:

  • Empty water bottles can be filled after security at hydration stations.
  • Laptops and large electronics may need to be removed from bags unless you're in the PreCheck lane.
  • Families with strollers or special medical equipment should allow extra time.

Concourse and Gate Areas

After security, you'll enter the airside concourse of Terminal 4, which features a bright, modern design and an open layout. Spirit's gates here handle both domestic and international departures.

Boarding Process

Spirit boards by groups (zones), starting with passengers needing assistance, followed by those who have purchased priority boarding. Boarding moves quickly, and gate agents enforce bag sizing rules at this stage.

Tips for boarding at FLL:

  • Have your boarding pass ready—either printed or on your phone (a screenshot works well if signal is poor).
  • Listen carefully to announcements, as gate changes and group calls happen rapidly.
  • Be prepared to show your bag fits in the sizer if requested.

Arrivals and Ground Transportation

Upon arrival at Terminal 4, you'll find baggage claim carousels on the lower level. Digital displays indicate which carousel corresponds to your flight.

Ground transportation options from Terminal 4 include:

  • Rideshare Pickup Zones – For Uber and Lyft, follow posted signs to the designated pickup area.
  • Taxi Stands – Available just outside the arrivals area.

Accessibility and Special Assistance

Terminal 4 offers accessibility features including elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms, and seating areas for passengers with reduced mobility. Spirit can arrange wheelchair assistance when booked in advance or requested at the check-in counter.

Tips for a Smooth Spirit Airlines Experience at FLL

  1. Arrive early – Crowds can be unpredictable, especially during cruise season.
  2. Check in online – Avoid long lines and go straight to security if you have no checked bags.
  3. Know your baggage limits – Spirit's personal item size rules are strictly enforced.
  4. Bring snacks – Food is available in the terminal, but having your own saves money and time.
  5. Download the Spirit app – Get real-time updates on gates, boarding, and delays.
  6. Use power banks – Outlets are available but often in high demand.

Final Thoughts

Spirit Airlines operations at Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport revolve around Terminal 4, which is designed to efficiently handle large volumes of budget-conscious travelers. While the airline's ultra-low-cost model means you'll need to plan for extras like bags and seat selection, the terminal itself offers enough dining, shopping, and comfort options to keep your pre-flight experience straightforward.

FAQs of Spirit Airlines FLL Terminal

  1. What terminal is Spirit Airlines at FLL?

    Spirit Airlines operates primarily from Terminal 4 at FLL. Most Spirit departures and arrivals—both domestic and international—use this terminal.
  2. How early should I arrive for a Spirit flight?
  • Domestic flights: Arrive at least 2 hours before departure.
  • International flights: Arrive at least 3 hours before departure.

    FLL can get busy, especially during cruise ship days and holiday travel, so arriving early helps avoid delays at check-in or security.
  1. Do you have to go through security again between terminals?

    Yes—if you leave the secure (airside) area, you must clear TSA security again when entering another terminal.
  2. How do you move between terminals at FLL?

    You can walk between terminals using airside connectors (if your flights are within the secure area) or landside walkways outside the secure zone. A free airport shuttle also connects all terminals landside.
  3. Do I have to go through a security check again for the connecting flight?
  • Spirit to Spirit connection in Terminal 4: No, you stay airside and skip security again.
  • Connection involving another airline or different terminal (without an airside connector): Yes, you'll need to exit and re-clear TSA security.