US, Los Angeles: Westchester Spirit Airlines Ceases Operations Leaving Thousands Jobless.

Los Angeles, United States - May 02, 2026 05/02/2026 12:00 am GMT-0700 WESTCHESTER, LOS ANGELES, Calif. – Spirit Airlines has ceased operations, leaving signs of its closure visible at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). The ultra-low-cost carrier announced it has immediately grounded its fleet, impacting approximately 17,000 employees who are now without jobs. All flights have been canceled, and customer service is no longer available, according to the airline's website. Passengers have been informed that refunds are forthcoming, but the airline will not assist with rebooking on other airlines. The shutdown came after Spirit’s failed attempt to secure a government bailout. President Trump stated that his administration extended a final offer to keep the airline operational, but a deal was not reached. Spirit had been in bankruptcy for the second time in less than two years, hindered by debt and increasing fuel costs linked to the ongoing conflict in Iran. Budget travelers are expected to feel the effects of the closure most acutely, particularly in major Spirit markets such as Las Vegas, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando.