Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentSwipe for next articleIndependent Bulletin homepageDownload our appAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleErin KellerFriday 01 May 2026 16:35 BSTSpirit is reportedly preparing for the possibility that it will run out of cash and cease operations entirely (Getty Images)Spirit Airlines is reportedly preparing to shut down after efforts to save the struggling budget carrier fell apart.The Wall Street Journal reported Friday that the airline was hoping a $500 million lifeline from the government would come through before it ran out of cash but it hasn’t been able to secure the funding to keep it in business.The carrier announced Thursday that a bankruptcy court hearing would not proceed as the airline continued negotiations with lenders regarding the potential U.S. government rescue package.Lenders had refrained from filing a notice that could initiate the liquidation of Spirit's assets within seven business days, indicating ongoing discussions and a temporary halt to immediate liquidation proceedings.Spirit's legal counsel highlighted a critical need for immediate new financing or access to $240 million of its existing funds, warning that liquidation would result in the loss of over 17,000 jobs and billions of dollars in claims.In fullSpirit Airlines prepares to shut down after Trump administration bailout falls throughThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in