Spirit Airlines Faces Financial Turmoil Following Blocked Merger
The budget carrier reports significant losses and declining stock prices after its planned merger with JetBlue was halted by antitrust actions.
- Spirit Airlines recorded a $142 million loss in Q1 2024, a 37.3% increase from the previous year.
- The failed merger with JetBlue, blocked due to antitrust concerns, has left Spirit struggling in a competitive market.
- Revenue fell by 6.2% year-over-year, with total operating expenses rising slightly by 0.7%.
- Spirit's stock price dropped by 9%, hitting a record low as the airline forecasts another loss for the next quarter.
- The airline is exploring refinancing options and has begun discussions with bondholders as it faces $1.5 billion in upcoming debt payments.