At 0300 EST on May 2nd, after thirty-four years of safe operation, Spirit Airlines ceased operations permanently. Over those thirty-four years, Spirit dispatchers — along with its pilots, airport operations, Inflight, and maintenance employees — transported millions of passengers safely, efficiently, and affordably.
Ceasing operations is something no organization ever takes lightly. Decisions made in board rooms affect real people in real ways, both within the organization and outside of it. But an airline is different. We spend countless hours working alongside our colleagues, sharing professional as well as personal experiences — the birth of children, weddings, retirements, funerals, the best of times peppered with the worst. We support, console, encourage, and comfort each other. It is the stuff of family, and the bonds run deep and strong.
When a family breaks apart, it alters lives forever. The Spirit family is no different, and today we think of our brothers and sisters — all of them — who have worked tirelessly and now must move on the best they can.
Know that ADF and its members are here to support you and assist you in any way we can. If you know a Spirit employee, thank them and lend them your ear.
These are difficult times, but airline people are made of different stuff — tough stuff. Like the planes we operate, the Spirit family will get through the storm. Turbulence doesn't last forever, and you will find blue skies.
Thank you, Spirit. You are forever a part of aviation history, and you will not be forgotten.
— The ADF Board