Spirit Airlines Sells 20 Airbus Jets Amid Restructuring
Spirit Airlines has announced a decision to sell 20 Airbus aircraft while also recalling some flight attendants who were furloughed late last year due to the airline’s financial struggles.
The airline is currently navigating its second bankruptcy, having filed for Chapter 11 in November 2024. The first restructuring was completed in March 2025, but another bankruptcy filing followed in August 2025, resulting in cuts to services and furloughs.
According to Spirit, the sale is intended to enhance its financial stability. They stated that, even if the court grants approval for the sale, they do not anticipate disruptions to flight schedules since most of the aircraft are not currently in service.
“As part of our ongoing restructuring, we have an agreement to sell 20 aircraft, which have been on the market for some time,” the airline noted. “Most of these planes are not in revenue service.”
If court approval is granted, Spirit believes this move will offer additional financial flexibility. The sale could begin as early as April 2026, with no immediate changes expected to current schedules or staffing.
The company has requested approval from federal bankruptcy court to proceed with the sale, receiving initial consent on Wednesday. The funds generated will help repay aircraft-related debts and reduce operational costs.
Reports indicate that the first bid came from aviation asset management firm CSDS Asset Management, which is looking to acquire 20 planes for about $533.5 million. If approved, Spirit will seek additional bids starting at approximately $554 million, planning for an auction in April.
In a related development, Spirit Airlines is recalling about 500 of the more than 1,300 flight attendants furloughed last December. “We are issuing recall notices effective December 1, 2025, and those who return will be notified accordingly,” the company said.
The union representing Spirit’s flight attendants emphasized that the recalls would be based on seniority. They expressed happiness for the affected attendants, noting it is essential for those who have experienced intense demands over the past couple of months. The goal, according to the union, is to help alleviate operational challenges since the furloughs.
The union also stated they will continue addressing concerns around scheduling, healthcare access, and other benefits with management.
