Spirit Airlines has ceased all operations, effective 3:00 am on Saturday, May 2, 2026, leaving thousands of passengers stranded and scrambling for alternative flights.
Orlando International Airport (MCO) has issued a statement confirming the shutdown and outlining options for affected travelers.
Spirit Airlines Cancels All Flights
Spirit Aviation Holdings announced the immediate wind-down of Spirit Airlines, citing a sharp rise in fuel prices as the final blow to the carrier's already strained finances. Despite reaching a restructuring agreement with bondholders in March 2026, the airline said it could not secure the hundreds of millions of dollars in additional funding needed to stay operational.
"The sudden and sustained rise in fuel prices in recent weeks ultimately has left us with no alternative but to pursue an orderly wind-down," said Dave Davis, Spirit's President and CEO.
Spirit passengers should not go to the airport. Visit spiritrestructuring.com for refund information, missing luggage assistance, and other support.
The Impact on MCO
Spirit has operated at MCO for 33 years and carried approximately 496,000 passengers through the airport in March 2026 alone. The airline had 237 flights scheduled out of MCO over the coming week, serving 46 domestic and international destinations. MCO has confirmed that Spirit Airlines is in arrears, and the airport is currently calculating the exact amount owed.
Around 160 Spirit employees are based in Orlando.
Refunds
- If you booked directly with Spirit using a credit or debit card, refunds will be processed automatically to your original payment method.
- If you booked through a travel agent, contact them directly to request a refund.
- Refunds for vouchers, credits, or Free Spirit points will be determined through the bankruptcy process at a later date.
Alternative Flights from MCO
Following discussions with the U.S. Department of Transportation, ten airlines have agreed to assist impacted Spirit passengers: American Airlines, United, Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, Allegiant, Frontier, Avelo, and Breeze. Check each airline's website directly for details on how they are supporting affected travelers.
MCO has posted a full list of alternative flights and destinations on the FlyMCO website.
Other Transportation Options
If you can't find a suitable flight, MCO offers these alternatives:
- Brightline train service to South Florida
- Car rental through one of 10 rental car companies at MCO
Visit Orlando has also provided links to Orlando-area accommodations offering special rates for stranded travelers.
Know Your Rights
The U.S. Department of Transportation offers passenger rights guidance on their website. If you're unsure of your options as a ticketed passenger on a canceled flight, that's a good starting point.
MCO says it will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
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