Spirit Airlines announced Monday that it will furlough 270 pilots this fall as the airline adjusts to a smaller off-season schedule in an effort to improve its financial position. In addition to the furloughs, 140 pilots will be downgraded from captain to first officer, with these changes taking effect on October 1, according to a communication from the Air Line Pilots Association, the pilots’ union.
Ryan Muller, a captain and chairman of Spirit’s ALPA chapter, acknowledged the difficult impact of the news, noting that the airline’s shrinking size continues to undermine pilot seniority and career stability. The furloughs will begin November 1 to better align staffing with the reduced flight schedule. Having emerged from Chapter 11 bankruptcy in March, Spirit has been focusing on offering more upscale travel options to attract customers, moving away from its traditional low-cost model. The airline emphasized that these steps are necessary to operate more efficiently and return to profitability amid softer demand in off-peak travel periods. Spirit also highlighted its commitment to treating affected employees with compassion throughout the process. Last year, the airline implemented similar furloughs as it approached bankruptcy.