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White House in Advanced Talks on $500 Million Spirit Airlines Rescue

The unusual, single-firm rescue would test the administration’s legal authority.

Overview

  • The White House, which multiple outlets reported Wednesday was negotiating with Spirit, is discussing up to $500 million in financing that is not yet finalized.
  • The package under review could include stock warrants that give the government a major ownership stake in Spirit, with some reports saying it could reach roughly 90%.
  • Spirit is in its second bankruptcy and had planned to exit this summer, but lenders questioned the plan as costs rose and the risk of liquidation increased.
  • Jet fuel prices roughly doubled after U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran disrupted traffic through the Strait of Hormuz, and JPMorgan estimates the spike could add about $360 million to Spirit’s 2026 expenses.
  • Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said he is reviewing options but warned against putting good money after bad, while Spirit says it is operating normally and selling tickets as talks continue.