TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — Spirit Airlines said it is winding down operations, canceling flights and ending service after failing to stay afloat.
The announcement came after last-minute efforts to save the budget carrier fell through. President Donald Trump said a final proposal had been presented, but any deal would have to make financial sense.
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Spirit said customers will be refunded, though it is unclear how long that process could take.
At Tampa International Airport, travelers said they were caught off guard and are now working to rebook flights.
A passenger heading out on a Spirit flight Friday afternoon said the news was disappointing, especially for travelers on a tight budget.
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“So personally I think it’s sad because as a student, my budget is like small and Spirit Airlines is the cheapest airline I know,” she said. “So for me it’s sad.”
Another passenger said the loss of a low-cost option could make travel more difficult for people trying to save money.
With Spirit out of the market, passengers said they are seeing fewer low-cost options and, in some cases, higher prices for last-minute bookings.
Frontier Airlines said it is offering discounted “rescue fares” to help stranded travelers rebook flights.
Passengers said they are hoping for the best, but preparing for the worst as they make new travel plans.