Spirit Airlines plans to recall around 500 furloughed pilots, according to an internal memo citing the low-cost carrier’s “evolving needs”.
On March 10, 2026, CNBC reported that the number of pilots leaving the airline had been higher than was originally projected. Some staff had moved to rival carriers leading to operational challenges.
In the memo to furloughed pilots last week, Spirit Airlines wrote: “Pilot attrition has been higher than forecast, making precise alignment between staffing and the reduced schedule more challenging.”
The airline added that the arrival of more pilots will “strengthen the foundation of our post-bankruptcy future”.
From late 2024 and through 2025, Spirit Airlines furloughed hundreds of pilots in an effort to reduce expenses and improve its financial situation.
Explaining the pilot recall, Spirit Airlines told CNBC that the airline continues to “make adjustments to meet the evolving needs” of the company.
Spirit Airlines expects to exit Chapter 11 bankruptcy later this year after reshaping the carrier into a slimmer, leaner model.
The current Chapter 11 bankruptcy was Spirit Airlines’ second over nine-month period when the process began in August 2025.
As part of its planned emerger from Chapter 11 bankruptcy, Spirit Airlines has shed dozens of aircraft with another 20 Airbus jets set to be sold at auction.
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