ROMULUS, Mich. – The Spirit Airlines section of the Evans Terminal at Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport was empty Saturday morning — a shocking sight that signaled the end of the budget carrier’s operations.
Every kiosk in the Spirit Airlines area displayed the same message: all flights are cancelled.
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Spirit has been struggling for some time, filing for bankruptcy protection in 2024 and again in 2025. The airline has now ceased all operations, leaving passengers caught off guard.
Many travelers arrived at DTW with hotels booked and plans already in place, unaware of just how serious the airline’s troubles had become.
Spirit Airlines addressed the situation in a statement, saying it would not be able to help rebook passengers on other airlines but would automatically process refunds for flights purchased with a credit or debit card back to the original form of payment.
The Wayne County Airport Authority also issued a statement urging affected travelers to stay home.
“If you are scheduled to travel on a Spirit flight, please do not come to DTW,” the authority said.
Delta Air Lines announced it is offering reduced, nonrefundable rescue fares in affected markets over the next five days.
“We are offering reduced, nonrefundable rescue fares in affected markets over the next five days to help travelers book last-minute travel, with availability even on flights that are close to full to provide more options even when space may be limited,” Delta said.
American Airlines also posted to social media, saying it is offering rescue flights for stranded Spirit passengers.