PODCASTS:
May 4, 2026 ~ Chris Renwick and Lloyd Jackson chat with Mike Lee, managing editor at Crain’s Detroit Business. They discuss Spirit Airlines, new downtown hotels, and an Ann Arbor drug maker’s billion-dollar sale.
May 4, 2026 ~ Chris Renwick and Lloyd Jackson speak with Mary Schiavo, former Department of Transportation Inspector General. They discuss Spirit Airlines’ bankruptcy, its impact on travelers and employees, and the hurdles of a potential crowdfunding acquisition.
May 4, 2026 ~ Spirit Airlines has shut down operations following two bankruptcies, grounding its entire fleet and canceling all flights effective immediately, bringing an end to the ultra‑low‑cost carrier after more than three decades in business.
The Florida‑based airline announced early Saturday that it was beginning an “orderly wind‑down” after failing to secure additional funding or a last‑minute federal bailout. This left many passengers stranded at aiprots any many airline workers out of a job, including at the Detroit Metro Airport.
Spirit said all customer service operations have ceased, and passengers with upcoming flights should not go to the airport. The defunct airline has already begun issuing refunds.
Wayne County Airport Authority CEO Chad Newton issued this statement:
“The Wayne County Airport Authority has received notice that Spirit Airlines has ceased operations. According to Spirit, all flights have been cancelled and customer service is no longer available. WCAA understands the significant impact this has on customers who were scheduled to travel, as well as the Spirit employees who came to DTW every day to serve our airport community.”
Spirit’s collapse impacts tens of thousands of travelers and employees nationwide. The airline employed roughly 15,000 to 17,000 workers, many of whom are now out of a job. Spirit says refunds will be automatically issued for tickets purchased with credit or debit cards, though travelers may still face delays and complications rebooking with other airlines.
The bright yellow planes were a familiar sight at airports across the country, including Detroit Metro, where Spirit served as a low‑fare option for leisure and budget‑conscious travelers. Industry analysts say the airline’s exit could lead to higher fares on some routes, especially in markets where Spirit provided significant discount competition.
