A Spirit Airlines airplane has been spotted at George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston as the airline contends with significant financial challenges. In a strategy aimed at recovery following its second bankruptcy within a year, Spirit has recently finalized the sale of 20 Airbus aircraft, most of which are currently not in operation. This decision comes as the carrier seeks to stabilize its operations after enduring years of financial difficulties.
John Bendoraitis, Spirit’s Chief Operating Officer, communicated to employees that the recent changes are part of an ongoing effort to manage staffing levels effectively while adhering to the company’s strategic plan. Bendoraitis mentioned that natural attrition and voluntary staffing adjustments are integral to this process, allowing flexibility in how the airline manages its workforce, specifically among pilots and flight attendants.
The airline’s fleet has now been reduced to 94 aircraft following this sale, aligning with a strategy to concentrate on its most profitable routes and maintain a more efficient fleet. The phased removal of the sold aircraft is scheduled to commence in April.
Despite ongoing discussions with investment firm Castlelake and budget carrier Frontier Airlines, the airline has yet to reach a significant agreement that would provide a sustainable path forward. In response, Spirit is also recalling 500 flight attendants from furlough as it prepares for increased travel demand during the upcoming spring break season.
Bendoraitis emphasized the need for a collaborative effort to fix the airline’s operational challenges, acknowledging that while there are external factors beyond the crews’ control, their commitment is vital to establishing a robust operational framework. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, representing the airline’s flight attendants, expressed optimism about the recall, highlighting its importance for the members who have endured a demanding operational environment over recent months. The union noted that recalling flight attendants is a crucial step towards addressing the operational issues that arose during the furlough period.
