Spirit Airlines to Furlough 260 Pilots, Delay Airbus Deliveries

The budget airline aims to improve liquidity and address financial challenges through aircraft deferrals and pilot furloughs.

Spirit Airlines announces plans to defer Airbus plane deliveries and furlough 260 pilots to improve liquidity.
The deferrals and furloughs are part of a broader strategy to bolster profitability and strengthen Spirit's balance sheet amid financial challenges.
The airline will defer all Airbus aircraft scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of 2025 through the end of 2026 to 2030 and 2031, aiming to save approximately $340 million over the next two years.
Pratt & Whitney engine issues have also forced Spirit to ground some of its A320neo aircraft, contributing to the need for pilot furloughs.
Despite the financial maneuvers, Spirit's stock has experienced a significant decline, with shares remaining down by 70 percent since the beginning of the year.