Spirit Airlines crowdfunding campaign goes viral after bankruptcy collapse
A viral online campaign is attempting to revive bankrupt low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines after social media creator Hunter Peterson proposed that ordinary Americans collectively buy the airline through crowdfunding, Qazinfrom News Agency reports.
The idea began as a joke suggesting that millions of people could each contribute $45 - the price associated with Spirit’s ultra-cheap tickets. The campaign quickly gained traction online, with more than 370,000 supporters reportedly pledging around $337 million through a dedicated website.
The campaign emerged after Spirit Airlines collapsed under mounting debt, failed merger attempts with Frontier Airlines and JetBlue, and rising operating costs. By 2025, the airline had accumulated roughly $8.1 billion in debt.
Supporters say the campaign reflects growing frustration over rising airfare prices and reduced competition in the U.S. airline industry. Spirit, despite criticism over fees and service quality, remained one of America’s cheapest airlines.
Experts, however, warn that relaunching the carrier would face enormous financial and legal challenges, including bankruptcy proceedings, aircraft leases, labor agreements, regulatory approvals, and securities laws.
The effort nevertheless continues gaining attention online and has reportedly received support from Spirit’s flight attendants union, which represents about 5,500 workers.
@hbpvo SPIRIT 2.0 x SPIRIT AFA LFG!!!!
♬ Spirit in the Sky - Norman Greenbaum
Peterson says the proposed “Spirit 2.0” model could allow contributors to vote on major airline decisions, including routes, leadership, and expansion plans.
