Spirit Airlines Bankruptcy has prompted the airline to move to sell 20 of its Airbus aircraft and recall 500 furloughed flight attendants as part of ongoing efforts to improve its financial position. The low-cost carrier, facing its second bankruptcy in under two years, aims to reduce costs while maintaining its flight schedule.
Fleet Sale Aims To Improve Financial Flexibility
Spirit reached an agreement to sell 20 aircraft, most of which are not currently in revenue service. The company said that if the federal bankruptcy court approves the transaction, the sale will provide greater financial flexibility and help reduce operational expenses. The aircraft are expected to be phased out of the fleet starting in April 2026.
As of February 13, 2026, Spirit Airlines is navigating a critical stage in its multi-year effort to avoid liquidation. Following a failed balance sheet reset in early 2025, the Spirit Airlines bankruptcy filing in August 2025 (often called a “Chapter 22” because it is the second filing in a year) shifted the focus from merely swapping debt for equity to a radical reduction of the airline’s actual operations.
Spirit filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November 2024 and completed a first restructuring in March 2025. A second bankruptcy filing occurred in August 2025, prompting service reductions and staff furloughs. The current move to sell aircraft is part of the ongoing restructuring plan to stabilize the company’s finances.
Recalling Furloughed Flight Attendants
Alongside the aircraft sale, Spirit Airlines Bankruptcy actions include recalling 500 flight attendants who were furloughed in December 2025. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, representing Spirit staff, confirmed that recalled employees will return to duty according to seniority rules and the terms of the collective bargaining agreement.
The recall aims to address operational challenges that emerged following the furloughs. Management plans to notify affected staff on February 12, 2026, with return dates outlined in the agreement. The union noted that the move is critical to easing operational pressures while maintaining service quality and safety standards.
Spirit’s restructuring has included service adjustments, cost management, and efforts to maintain operations amid financial difficulties. While some employees have returned, the airline continues to navigate challenges in stabilizing the business, improving cash flow, and managing debt obligations.
The company’s actions reflect a focus on retaining core operations, ensuring staffing levels, and reducing financial burdens from idle aircraft. The sale of jets and phased return of staff are expected to support ongoing efforts to stabilize operations while maintaining customer service.
Spirit Airlines continues to explore additional measures to strengthen its balance sheet and improve efficiency across its network, balancing cost management with operational continuity. The company remains committed to maintaining flight schedules during the transition while using the Spirit Airlines bankruptcy process to secure long-term stability.
