economy
A retiring Spirit pilot's last flight was canceled by the budget carrier's sudden closure. See his impromptu celebration.
A former Spirit pilot received an impromptu retirement celebration when the airline's sudden shutdown led to the cancellation of what would have been his final flight.
TL;DR
- Spirit Airlines abruptly shut down operations after failing to secure a federal bailout.
- Captain Jon Jackson's final flight as a Spirit pilot was canceled due to the shutdown.
- Jackson traveled home on a Southwest Airlines flight with his son, who is also a pilot for the airline.
- Southwest pilots learned of Jackson's canceled retirement flight and arranged a spontaneous celebration.
- The celebration included a champagne toast, cheering crowd, and a water cannon salute at Baltimore Airport.