Spirit Airlines’ death is entirely on the Biden administration — and specifically faux-populism
Spirit Airlines has ceased operations, resulting in job losses for 17,000 employees and reduced competition in the U.S. airline industry. The editorial board attributes the airline's collapse to the Biden administration's antitrust policies, particularly the Federal Trade Commission's opposition to JetBlue's acquisition of Spirit. The decision to block the merger is criticized as ideologically driven and harmful to consumers and workers despite intentions to protect market competition.
- ▪Spirit Airlines announced it was shutting down, leaving 17,000 employees without jobs.
- ▪The Biden administration, specifically FTC Chair Lina Khan and former Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, blocked JetBlue's attempt to acquire Spirit Airlines in 2024.
- ▪The editorial argues that blocking the merger reduced competition and harmed consumers, despite claims it would protect them.
- ▪Fuel price increases due to the Iran war are cited as a timing factor, not the root cause of Spirit's struggles.
- ▪Spirit had previously faced financial difficulties, including two bankruptcies, but the sale could have provided a smoother transition.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Opinion editorial Spirit Airlines’ death is entirely on the Biden administration — and specifically faux-populism By Post Editorial Board Published May 3, 2026, 8:12 p.m. ET Spirit Airlines announced Saturday it was shutting down. ZUMAPRESS.com Saturday’s Spirit Airlines shutdown is entirely on the Biden administration — and more specifically, on the faux-populism of its Federal Trade Commission chief, Lina Khan. On top of all the travelers left scrambling, 17,000 Americans just lost their jobs, while future travelers will have one less choice and the rest of the industry faces reduced competition.
…
Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at New York Post.
Discussion
0 commentsMore from New York Post
