Spirit Airlines

Spirit Pilots Navigate Historic Challenges

Spirit Airlines pilots faced an extraordinarily challenging year in 2025, marked by workforce reductions and a second bankruptcy filing as the airline confronted persistent financial pressures. On January 31, 2025, approximately 230 pilots were furloughed, followed by an additional 270 pilot furloughs on November 1.

In August, the airline filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the second time, initiating a complex restructuring process that demanded unprecedented pilot engagement. Management sought $100 million in labor-cost reductions, triggering intensive negotiations under the threat of contract-rejection proceedings under Section 1113 of the Bankruptcy Code. These negotiations ultimately culminated in a ratified restructuring agreement in December.

The pilots’ Master Executive Council, led by chair Capt. Ryan Muller, and the pilot group’s Negotiating Committee, led by chair Capt. Paul Slotten, worked alongside ALPA staff to navigate the compressed timeline of bankruptcy negotiations. The Negotiating Committee preserved all core work rules, including all scheduling and quality-of-life provisions, while bargaining temporary modifications to hourly pay rates and company-funded retirement contributions.

On December 11, 2025, Spirit pilots ratified the restructuring agreement by a vote of 82 percent in favor, with 79 percent of eligible pilots participating. “The company sought far deeper cuts through Section 1113, and instead we negotiated temporary reductions to pay rates and retirement contributions effective January 1, 2026,” Muller stated. Full restoration to pay rates occurs through guaranteed increases on August 1, 2028, and January 1, 2029, and company-funded retirement contributions will be fully restored by July 1, 2029.

The agreement secured bankruptcy protections limiting the company’s ability to seek additional relief and established a $278 million unsecured bankruptcy claim, providing pilots with a direct financial stake in Spirit’s successful emergence from restructuring. The Negotiating Committee ensured that pilots avoided court-imposed contract rejection under Section 1113 while preserving work rules.

Despite the challenges of furloughs and bankruptcy restructuring, Spirit pilots continue to maintain their commitment to safety, professionalism, and unity. As Spirit continues its restructuring process, the pilots remain focused on holding the company accountable for every provision of the ratified agreement and ensuring that their voice is heard in whatever comes next for the airline.

In times of uncertainty, our strength lies in our unity. Spirit pilots have consistently demonstrated resilience and professionalism, even in challenging circumstances.

Spirit Airlines MEC