Yesterday, I wrote a post based on the Wall Street Journal and New York Times reporting that Spirit Airlines was preparing to cease operations if the U.S. government didn’t bail them out at the last minute. The government didn’t (wisely) and unfortunately, Spirit Airlines did indeed cease operations early this morning. That has left thousands of travelers and employees left scrambling. The good news is that several major carriers are stepping up in a big way to help ease the disruption.
Here’s what you need to know and how to take advantage of it:United Airlines: Price-Capped Rescue Fares + Help for Employees
United was the first to send a press release out and they are offering one of the most comprehensive support packages:
- Special fares capped at $199–$299 on many routes previously served by Spirit
- Available for travel May 2–May 16
- Requires a Spirit confirmation number and proof of purchase
- Book at united.com/specialfares
They’re also helping Spirit employees by:
- Offering pass travel benefits for two weeks
- Fast-tracking job applications through a dedicated hiring portal
Tip: If you’re stranded soon, check United first. Their fare caps apply across multiple major cities like Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and Las Vegas.
American Airlines: Rescue Fares + Added Flights
American is focusing on scale and coverage:
- Rescue fares on overlapping Spirit routes
- Service in 70 of the 72 airports Spirit operated
- Adding larger aircraft and more flights where possible
They’re also:
- Providing transportation for displaced Spirit crew members
- Launching a hiring portal and recruiting events
Tip: If your route is a major domestic city pair, American likely has the most availability.
JetBlue: $99 Fares + Major Expansion
JetBlue is going aggressive, especially in Florida and the Caribbean where Spirit was the most active:
- $99 one-way rescue fares for immediate travel (limited window)
- Fare caps up to $299 on select routes
- Expanding service with 11 new cities from Fort Lauderdale
- Increasing flights across key markets
They’re also:
- Allowing Spirit pilots and flight attendants to use jumpseat travel
- Offering job interviews for impacted employees
Tip: If you’re traveling through Fort Lauderdale or San Juan, JetBlue may offer the best deals and availability.
Avelo Airlines: Deep Discounts + Hiring Push
Avelo is stepping in with some of the steepest discounts so far:
- Up to 75% off base fares with promo code TRYAVELO (valid through Nov. 17)
- Serving as an alternative on 29 former Spirit routes
- Free Avelo PLUS status match for eligible Spirit Saver$ Club members
They’re also:
- Actively hiring displaced Spirit employees
- Expanding operations, including growth in the Dallas area
Tip: If you’re flexible on airports, Avelo can be a great low-cost backup, especially in Florida and the Northeast.
What Travelers Should Do Right Now
- Act fast: These fares are limited and time-sensitive
- Have your Spirit confirmation ready to unlock deals
- Check multiple airlines before booking
- Avoid waiting for refunds if you need to travel soon
Bottom Line
This is a tough time for both travelers and the 17,000 airline employees, but it’s a relief to see competitors step in quickly. Between United’s fare caps, American’s network strength, and JetBlue’s aggressive pricing, there are real options if your plans were disrupted.
If you were affected, now is the time to move quickly and secure a backup plan before prices climb.
