Miramar, Florida.- Spirit Airlines today announced that it is further expanding its Caribbean route network with the introduction of new service between its Fort Lauderdale home and Santiago, Dominican Republic. Beginning June 18, 2009, the ultra low cost carrier will offer four weekly flights to Santiago, Dominican Republic from Fort Lauderdale, including connections from 16 cities in the United States.

The new service to Santiago complements Spirit's current service to Santo Domingo and seasonal service to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Spirit is kicking off its new service with introductory fares from $9* each way available today and tomorrow at www.spiritair.com <http://www.spiritair.com/> .

The new service will be operated with Spirit's fleet of Airbus A319s, the youngest in the Americas.

“This new service is just the latest in Spirit's commitment to continuing in our position as the largest and leading low cost carrier at our Fort Lauderdale home," says Spirit's Chief Marketing Officer Barry Biffle. "We're thrilled to be even further expanding our network which already offers travelers service to more places in the Caribbean and Latin America than any other low fare, low cost airline."

"I'm delighted Spirit airlines will be adding another international destination at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport serving the south Florida community," said Kent George, Broward County Aviation Department Director of Aviation. "We look forward to future air service expansions as the economy improves."

"Cibao International Airport is pleased to welcome Spirit Airlines and we hope this new relationship is the strong beginning of a long-term relationship. We welcome them and wish them much success," said Ing. Félix Garcia, President Cibao International Airport in Santiago, Dominican Republic.

Santiago is located in the Dominican Republic's central region, home to some of the country's lushest and most fertile lands, as well as the stunning Cordillera Central mountain ranges and the Cibao Valley. Well endowed with rich soil and incredible natural resources, this region regularly attracts nature lovers, cigar connoisseurs and adventurers. The city of Santiago is comprised of natives that prefer a less chaotic and more purposeful lifestyle. Home to over 750,000 people, the heart of this laid back city proves to be a cultured downtown area.