US low cost carrier Spirit saw its adjusted pre-tax earnings increased 15.3 percent year over year in 2019, according to its Q4 and full year earnings report.
For the fourth quarter 2019, total GAAP operating expenses increased 16.3 percent year over year to $845.2 million. Adjusted operating expenses for the fourth quarter 2019 increased 16.1 percent year over year to $840.2 million4. Primary drivers of the increase in adjusted operating expense compared to the fourth quarter last year include increased flight volume and higher ground handling rates.
For the fourth quarter 2019, Spirit's total operating revenue was $969.8 million, an increase of 12.4 percent compared to the fourth quarter 2018, driven by an 18.6 percent increase in flight volume.
Ted Christie, Spirit’s president and chief executive is looking to drive revenue further over the next 12 months. "Looking ahead to 2020, we are focused on running a safe and reliable airline, leveraging technology and automation to drive further efficiencies, and executing on our revenue initiatives to deliver strong returns for our shareholders.”