Spirit Airlines Officially Shuts Down After 34 Years of Operation

Spirit Airlines has officially ceased operations after reports earlier this week pointed to a possible shutdown.

On Saturday (May 2), the company released a statement, confirming that it was winding down its operations. "To our Guests: all flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available," the company said.

"Despite the company’s efforts, the recent material increase in oil prices and other pressures on the business have significantly impacted Spirit's financial outlook," the statement continued. "With no additional funding available to the company, Spirit had no choice but to begin this wind-down."

This situation affects thousands of scheduled flights, which directly impacts the customers who now have to find new ones with the help of other airlines (which have announced intent to assist Spirit customers). It also affects the many employees now without jobs.

Customers are reportedly being issued refunds and have been instructed to rebook their flights with other airlines.

Spirit has struggled to maintain profitability ever since the COVID-19 pandemic. More recently, it had come out of its second bankruptcy in less than a year. But ultimately, it was the rising costs of jet fuel due to the war with Iran that put it out of business.

With Spirit's collapse, that makes it the first time in 25 years that a major US airline has gone out of business because of financial troubles. It comes to an end after 34 years in operation.

To help with the sudden changes for Spirit customers and employees, US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy wrote on X that the federal government is working to ensure there are capped ticket prices, reduced fares, and employee support during this difficult time.