Spirit Airlines To Sell 20 Planes, Calls Flight Attendants From Furlough

As Spirit Airlines tries to survive its second bankruptcy in less than a year, the airline is selling another set of 20 planes. Most of the 20 planes for sale are not in service, as executives do their best to keep the airline afloat.

20 Planes for Sale

Spirit’s Chief Operating Officer, John Bendoraitis, said in a note to employees, “At this time, natural attrition and voluntary actions are providing flexibility needed to right-size our staffing levels for both Pilots and Flight attendants.”

This move brings Spirit’s fleet total to 94 aircraft. Bendoraitis explained that it is “consistent with our plan to focus on our strongest routes and the most efficient fleet.” 

The initial bid for the 20 planes is $533.5 million, with the auction starting this April and subject to court approval. Proceeds would cover the airline’s debts. The sale is also not expected to affect its short-term flight schedule, since most of the aircraft are not in use.

Bringing Back 500 Furloughed Flight Attendants

The Florida-based carrier is also calling back its 500 furloughed flight attendants as it prepares for this year’s spring break.

Bendoraitis said “Fixing this airline is a shared effort.” He added, “There’s a lot in this moment that crews can’t control, but we do need you to continue giving us the foundation for a strong operation.”

To survive, the airline slashed its network and furloughed more than 1,300 flight attendants and hundreds of pilots.

The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, the union representing Spirit flight attendants said on Wednesday, “This is good news for 500 Flight Attendants and their families and critical to those of us on the line that have faced a grueling operation over the last two months.” The union added, “The company’s goal in recalling Flight Attendants is to ease some of the operational issues since the furloughs.”

The airline first declared bankruptcy in November 2024 and completed its restructuring in March 2025. By August 2025, Spirit had filed for another bankruptcy amid financial pressure and capacity reductions.