Spirit Airlines to Furlough 365 Pilots Amid Financial Struggles

Spirit Airlines has announced plans to furlough an additional 365 pilots in the first quarter of 2026, reflecting ongoing financial challenges that continue to plague the low-cost carrier. This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to cut costs and stabilize operations after the airline’s second bankruptcy filing in less than a year, which occurred in August 2025.

According to Reuters, the airline has already furloughed 330 pilots this year and intends to reduce another 270 in the coming month. Additionally, approximately 1,800 flight attendants, or one-third of its total cabin crew, will also face furloughs. Spirit’s workforce currently includes around 2,400 pilots, and these cuts are part of a comprehensive effort to trim operating costs by $100 million annually, as outlined by company leadership.

Financial Challenges and Operational Cuts

Spirit Airlines is also rejecting nearly 90% of upcoming aircraft deliveries from its primary lessor, AerCap Ireland. The airline plans to cancel 12 airport leases and terminate 19 ground handling contracts as it seeks to improve its financial position. These drastic measures aim to reduce expenses by $211 million and follow a series of cost-cutting actions that include significant reductions in equipment and facility leases.

In a September 30 press release, Dave Davis, President and Chief Executive Officer of Spirit Airlines, expressed optimism about the future, stating, “These are significant steps forward in a short period of time to build a stronger Spirit.” He praised the airline’s team members for their dedication to customer service during these challenging times.

Despite these efforts, Spirit reported estimated losses exceeding $800 million for 2025 and projects that it will not achieve profitability until 2027. The current market conditions are described as unfavorable for affordable air travel, with many consumers opting for premium experiences instead of budget flights. This shift in consumer behavior has further complicated Spirit’s recovery plans.

Employee Impact and Future Strategies

In addition to the pilot and flight attendant furloughs, Spirit is expected to lay off corporate and support staff, leading to a reduction in total operational capacity by 25%. The airline’s maintenance facilities in Baltimore and Chicago are anticipated to close by the end of the year as part of these measures.

Spirit has also sought cooperation from its employees to mitigate the impact of these cuts. Flight attendants were invited to volunteer for furlough leaves of six or twelve months, with 800 volunteers already stepping forward. Those who volunteer will retain medical benefits through the Association of Flight Attendants-CWA.

Negotiations are ongoing with the Air Line Pilots Association to achieve the targeted $100 million savings in labor costs. Spirit has indicated it may explore options for financial relief beyond existing labor agreements as it navigates these turbulent times.

A recent decision by the Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York on October 10, 2025, made $200 million in funds available to Spirit. This ruling included a $150 million payment to the airline and involved the cancellation of 27 Airbus aircraft leases. With a current fleet of 150 aircraft, this reduction represents nearly 20% of Spirit’s total airframes.

The airline aims to cut its losses by approximately 80% in the coming year and hopes to report a profit of over $200 million by 2027. Key to this plan is a focus on reducing capacity and eliminating excess operating costs, including payroll. As Spirit reassesses its service model, it is also considering new fare options to better align with post-COVID air travel trends.