U.S. ultra-low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines has “begun to systematically wind down our operations,” the company said Saturday.
The move was “effective immediately”, all flights were canceled and customer service was no longer available. The carrier said customers can expect a refund for their tickets.
“We are proud of the impact our ultra-low-cost model has had on the industry over the past 34 years and look forward to serving our guests for many years to come,” the statement said.
This move may affect around 17,000 jobs.
Previously, the company had hoped to receive a government bailout, a possibility President Donald Trump raised last week. Although details of the proposal have not been officially confirmed, US media have reported that it would involve the government providing $500 billion (about €427 billion) of taxpayers’ money in exchange for a stake in the airline.
On Friday, Trump said his administration had presented a “final offer” to keep Spirit Airlines in business, but no deal was reached.
more to come…