Spirit Airlines plans to overcome 270 pilots as of November 1, the airline confirmed to TPG on Tuesday, since it prepares to make significant cuts for its schedule and network. The airline also said that it will degrade, or degrade, 140 captains to the first officers as of October 1.
In a statement, a Spirit spokesman confirmed the reduction of the workforce and said it was necessary to “better align staff with our flight schedule.”
“We are taking the necessary measures to ensure that we will operate in the most efficient way as part of our efforts to return to profitability,” said the statement. “We recognize the weight of this decision and we are committed to treating all members of the team affected with compassion and respect during this process.”
Bloomberg first reported the permits. Spirit also dismissal pilots and cut other jobs in 2024.
Spirit did not provide details about the next flight cuts, although the airline has already cut numerous routes and Frequencies In several different movements Since the end of 2024.
Spirit It arose from chapter 11 bankruptcy In March, after a large corporate restructuring that saw the airline convert $ 795 million of debt financed in capital and receive a capital increase of $ 350 million of investors. The airline appointed a new CEO, Dave Davis, after the previous CEO Ted Christie resigned as part of the restructuring.
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The airline has tried to pivot from its ultra -low cost business model, since it struggles to return to profitability by offering premium travel options such as First class seatsseeking to reposition itself as a more exclusive airline among its budgetary competitors. The US airlines have become more dependent on premium revenues since the COVID-19 pandemic began, while traditional carriers have also learned to dominate the concept of “basic economy”, something neutralizing the competitive advantage that ultra-low cost airlines like Spirit previously enjoyed.
Even so, the airline has continued to face increasing challenges on the other side of bankruptcy after informing a net loss of more than $ 1 billion in 2024. The demand for national trips has been softer than expected this year in the entire industry, they have said other airlines.
While the airline tried to merge with Jetblue in 2023 to avoid bankruptcy or even insolvency, The fusion was attacked by a federal judge in early 2024. Frontier Airlines made an offer to acquire spirit At the end of January, suggesting another reorganization option for the problem carrier. However, Spirit rejected Frontier’s offer.
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