Spirit Airlines Ceases Operations

Effective Immediately, All Flights Cancelled Across Its Network

Effective immediately, Spirit Airlines has ceased operations. All flights to and from Richmond International Airport (RIC) and across its network are canceled.

For those with travel booked on Spirit, the airline advises travelers not to go to the airport and has provided guidance on its website regarding refunds. Visit https://www.spiritrestructuring.com/ for more information. Several airlines have offered to assist impacted travelers with alternative travel arrangements, where possible.

Additional information:

• Spirit started operations at RIC on March 15, 2018; its inaugural celebration included the local No BS Brass Band in the ticketing hall.
• Primary destinations: Orlando (MCO) and Ft. Lauderdale (FLL).
• Several other routes from RIC were tried/tested over the years, including Las Vegas, Tampa, Detroit, and New York LGA.
• Market share for 2026 year to date through March: 3.5%.
• As far as impact at RIC, the routes operated by Spirit in 2026 are offered by other airlines:
  • Ft. Lauderdale: JetBlue.
  • Orlando: JetBlue, Southwest, Frontier (seasonal), and Allegiant (seasonal via Orlando Sanford).
• Guidance from Spirit:
  • Website: https://www.spiritrestructuring.com/
  • Spirit’s claims agent: Epiq, may be reached by email SpiritAirlinesInfo@epiqglobal.com or phone (855) 952-6606 (for toll-free U.S. and Canada calls) or (971) 715-2831 (for international calls).

About Richmond International Airport (RIC)  

Richmond International Airport’s vision is to be the region’s preferred gateway to the world by focusing on world-class customer experience and operational excellence that drives passenger choice. Activities at RIC contribute nearly 13,500 jobs and $2.97 billion to central Virginia’s economy, according to a new report from the VCU School of Business Executive MBA program. To learn more, please visit RIC on the web, X, Facebook, Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn or YouTube.