The Spirit Airlines closure is affecting hundreds of Florida travelers after the ultra-low cost carrier announced it has gone out of business after 34 years. The airline, which once operated hundreds of daily flights on its bright yellow planes and employed about 17,000 people, has begun an orderly wind-down of operations. This news comes at a time when other Florida businesses, such as Joann’s locations in Vero Beach and Jensen Beach, have also announced closures, signaling a period of transition for the state’s travel and retail sectors.
Flights Canceled at Orlando and Tampa Airports
Orlando International Airport had eight outgoing Spirit flights scheduled Saturday and two incoming. In Tampa, six departures and three arrivals were canceled. All flights have been canceled, and customer service is no longer available, according to the airline’s website. The closure follows a trend of recent shutdowns in the region, including the Port St. Lucie assisted living facility closure that affected many local residents.
The company advised customers that they could expect refunds but there would be no help in booking travel on other airlines.
Financial Struggles Leading to Shutdown
The shutdown was expected after Friday came and went without a needed government bailout for the cash-strapped business. Spirit has struggled financially since the COVID-19 pandemic, weighed down by rising operating costs and growing debt. Similarly, other Florida projects have faced setbacks, such as the recent halt of artificial reef projects following the Fort Pierce closure.
By the time it filed for Chapter 11 protection in November 2024, Spirit had lost more than $2.5 billion since the start of 2020. The budget carrier sought bankruptcy protection again in August 2025, when it reported having $8.1 billion in debts and $8.6 billion in assets, according to court filings.
Budget and Leisure Travelers Affected
Budget-conscious and leisure travelers would likely feel Spirit’s absence the most, especially in places where the airline has a big footprint such as Las Vegas, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando.
Frequently Asked Questions About Spirit Airlines Closure
What happened to Spirit Airlines?
Spirit Airlines announced that it has gone out of business after 34 years and started an orderly wind-down of operations.
How many employees did the airline have?
Spirit Airlines employed about 17,000 people and once operated hundreds of daily flights.
Can passengers get refunds for canceled flights?
The company advised customers that they could expect refunds, but there would be no help in booking travel on other airlines.
How much debt did Spirit Airlines carry?
When Spirit sought bankruptcy protection again in August 2025, it reported having $8.1 billion in debts and $8.6 billion in assets, according to court filings.
Where will travelers feel the impact most?
Budget-conscious and leisure travelers would likely feel Spirit’s absence the most in places where the airline had a big footprint, such as Las Vegas, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando.
Port St Lucie Talks
