As of May 2, 2026, Spirit Airlines has officially ceased all operations and canceled all scheduled flights. Because the airline is in the process of a total wind-down, you will likely not be able to reach their customer service or find staff at the airport.
Here is exactly how to handle refunds and travel arrangements right now:
1. How to Get a Refund
Since the airline has shut down, traditional refund requests through their website or app are unlikely to be processed. Your best course of action depends on how you paid:
- Credit or Debit Card: Contact your bank or credit card issuer immediately to dispute the charge (initiate a “chargeback”). Inform them that the merchant has ceased operations and failed to provide the service. This is the fastest and most reliable way to get your money back.
- Third-Party Booking (Expedia, Priceline, etc.): If you booked through an online travel agency, contact them directly. They are responsible for your refund if they were the “merchant of record.”
- Vouchers, Credits, or Points: These are considered “unsecured debt” in a bankruptcy wind-down. It is highly unlikely you will be able to redeem these, and any cash value would typically be determined much later in bankruptcy court.
2. Rebooking and “Rescue Fares”
Spirit is not rebooking passengers on other airlines. You must arrange your own alternative travel. Several major carriers have announced assistance for stranded Spirit passengers:
- Participating Airlines: United, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and Frontier have implemented “rescue fares” and price caps on routes previously served by Spirit to prevent price gouging.
- Action: Search for one-way flights on these carriers’ websites. Some may require you to show your Spirit confirmation at the counter or use a specific “rescue” link on their homepage.
- The DOT Agreement: The Department of Transportation has reached an agreement with major carriers to cap fares on affected routes through the coming weeks.
3. Essential Tips
- Do Not Go to the Airport for Spirit: There are no Spirit employees there to assist you. All kiosks and counters are closed.
- Travel Insurance: If you purchased a third-party travel insurance policy (like Allianz or AIG), check your “Supplier Financial Default” coverage. This may cover the cost of a new, more expensive ticket.
- Documentation: Save a PDF or screenshot of your original Spirit confirmation and any notice of cancellation. You will need these for your credit card dispute or insurance claim.
If you are currently stranded at an airport away from home, look for the “Guest Services” or “Help” desks of other major airlines to ask about their specific Spirit rescue policies.