Spirit Airlines Furloughs 74 Fewer Pilots Than Initially Projected
Spirit Airlines recently announced the furlough of 186 pilots, 74 fewer than the 260 initially projected. This move comes as the airline struggles with financial challenges, including a second-quarter net loss of nearly $193 million. The decision to furlough fewer pilots than anticipated may provide some relief, as Spirit aims to save millions amid ongoing operational issues.
The Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), representing over 3,700 Spirit pilots, confirmed the furloughs, describing it as a “difficult day” for the pilots. The furloughs are largely attributed to problems with Pratt & Whitney engines that power Spirit’s Airbus A320neo fleet, leading to mandatory groundings and deferred aircraft deliveries.
Despite the reduction in furlough numbers, 96 captains have been downgraded. ALPA’s Master Executive Council Chairman, Ryan Muller, praised the solidarity of Spirit pilots, noting that voluntary leaves and attrition helped reduce the initial furlough numbers. Many pilots chose voluntary furloughs to protect junior colleagues’ careers, highlighting the strong union spirit.
The furloughs have sparked backlash, especially after Spirit’s CEO and top executives received pay raises in July. While the timeline for the furloughs remains unclear, ALPA is providing support to affected pilots, including resources and potential opportunities with other airlines.
Spirit Airlines has yet to comment on the situation, but the furloughs mark a significant moment for the carrier, which last furloughed pilots in 2008. The airline continues to navigate financial difficulties while seeking to stabilize its operations.
Related news: https://airguide.info/?s=Spirit+Airlines
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, simpleflying.com, Air Line Pilots Association