Spirit Airlines has suspended all operations effective immediately, canceling all scheduled flights and halting customer service. This sudden shutdown leaves thousands of travelers stranded at Orlando International Airport as they scramble for alternative travel arrangements.
As of early Tuesday, 237 flights to 46 destinations were scheduled to operate from MCO. The airline recently flew more than 50,000 passengers in the past day before the shutdown.
About 17,000 employees have lost their jobs due to this closure. Spirit Airlines is the first major U.S. airline in 25 years to go out of business because of financial problems.
Passengers are advised not to go to the airport as there will be no customer service available. Refunds will be issued automatically for customers who booked directly using credit or debit cards.
Those who booked through third parties must contact those providers for reimbursement. Other airlines are offering special pricing for impacted Spirit passengers, with JetBlue and Southwest providing support options for up to 72 hours.
The Orlando International Airport stated that Spirit has been a valued partner for 33 years. However, negotiations for federal financial assistance collapsed just before the shutdown.
Many affected travelers expressed their frustration. “It’s crazy. Now I’m stranded. No way home,” said Michael Wilkes. Others voiced similar concerns about their immediate travel plans.
The airline has struggled financially since the COVID-19 pandemic, facing rising jet fuel costs and operational challenges. The exact amount Spirit Airlines owes to the airport is still being calculated.