economy
Spirit Airlines reached out to Trump administration for emergency bailout
April 17, 2026 / 6:13 PM EDT / CBS News
TL;DR
- Spirit Airlines is seeking an emergency bailout from the Trump administration.
- Surging fuel prices are threatening the airline's viability and could lead to liquidation.
- Creditors are questioning Spirit's ability to make upcoming debt payments.
- Spirit executives are scheduled to meet with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy.
- The airline was expected to exit bankruptcy this summer after a debt restructuring agreement.
- Spirit's financial difficulties are linked to changing consumer preferences post-pandemic and a failed merger with JetBlue.