Spirit Airlines Releases Statement as Carrier Immediately Ceases All Operations
After a government bailout fell through at the last moment, Spirit Airlines has officially ceased operations.
As a quick recap, Spirit declared bankruptcy last August following its failed merger with JetBlue. At the time, the airline maintained that operations would continue as normal, though it announced plans to reduce its network, shrink its fleet, and implement a range of cost-cutting measures.
Photo: Spirit
The goal was to lower operating expenses by hundreds of millions of dollars annually.
In the months that followed, Spirit reached agreements with pilot and flight attendant unions that included concessions aimed at keeping the airline afloat.
Photo: CNBC
However, amid rising fuel costs, it increasingly appeared that Spirit was running out of options.
The Bailout That Fell Through
Just when it looked like the carrier had reached the end of the line, it appeared that Spirit was nearing a deal with the federal government on a $500 million bailout.
Reportedly, disagreements among officials and resistance from bondholders scuttled the deal.
Photo: Spirit
Without the bailout, Spirit has been forced to liquidate its aircraft and cease operations.
Spirit’s Official Statement
Yesterday, Spirit Airlines released an official statement announcing that operations were ceasing immediately and all flights had been canceled.
“It is with great disappointment that Spirit Airlines has started winding down its global operations, effective immediately. All flights have been cancelled, and customer service is no longer available. While we are not able to help rebook your flight on another airline, we will automatically process refunds for any flights purchased through Spirit with a credit or debit card to the original form of payment,” they said.
Photo: Fox 2 Detroit
“We are proud of the impact of our ultra-low-cost model on the industry for the last 33 years and had hoped to serve our Guests for many years to come. For more information on the wind-down process, please visit https://www.spiritrestructuring.com/
Time to Make Alternative Plans
With summer vacation just around the corner, millions of fliers will have their travel plans upended by Spirit’s demise.
Photo: Airline Geeks
So, if you have an upcoming trip, it is officially time to start making other arrangements.
As always, be sure to check back with MickeyBlog. We will continue to update you on all the news affecting your Disney vacation.
Photo: MickeyBlog
