Spirit Airlines officially launches at Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport on Thursday, providing direct daily service between the Lowcountry and Newark, New Jersey. The first Spirit flight from Newark Liberty International Airport to Savannah was scheduled for 12 p.

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WSAV) — Spirit Airlines flew its inaugural flight from the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport to Newark, New Jersey Thursday. The budget airline announced the daily, non-stop flight to and from New Jersey earlier this year.

Spirit exited bankruptcy protection earlier this year. It cut a lot of debt and received fresh investment, helping to provide a new foundation. Like all carriers that have undertaken this process, it aims to be stronger, more focused, and more competitive. Spirit was also among the most impacted operators by the Pratt & Whitney engine problems.