Spirit Airlines is preparing to furlough a total of 1,800 flight attendants across the U.S. later this year, with over 300 of those cuts affecting staff in the Atlanta area.
Why the Layoffs Are Happening
This drastic move comes as the low-cost carrier grapples with financial pressures and files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy for the second time in less than a year. Business Insider+3AP News+3Reuters+3 Spirit aims to align its workforce with projected flight demand, which includes plans to reduce its November flight capacity by about 25% year over year. Reuters+2AP News+2
Spirit has already made other cost cuts, including asking pilots to accept pay reductions. Business Insider+2Reuters+2
How the Furloughs Will Be Phased
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Beginning November 1, the airline will offer voluntary furloughs lasting either six months or one year. These voluntary leave options are intended to reduce the need for forced cuts. AP News+2Reuters+2
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If still needed, involuntary furloughs will begin December 1, with severance based on seniority and other criteria. Reuters+2AP News+2
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The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA) is coordinating efforts to help displaced workers secure interviews with other airlines. AP News+1
Local Impact in Atlanta
As part of the nationwide reduction, Atlanta will see more than 300 flight attendants furloughed. WSB-TV Channel 2 – Atlanta+2Yahoo+2 These cuts reflect the broader scale of Spirit’s restructuring efforts, and the airline says it will treat impacted employees with “care and respect” during the process.
(Photo by Kevin Carter/Getty Images)
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