US low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines has declared bankruptcy

Spirit Airlines, which is one of the largest low-cost airlines in the United States, on Monday, November 18, filed a petition for protection from creditors amid high levels of corporate debt and the procedure for raising additional capital. Thus, a bankruptcy procedure was initiated, as reported by Reuters.

"Spirit Airlines announces a comprehensive balance sheet reduction agreement. Voluntary and pre-prepared procedures under Chapter 11 (U.S. Bankruptcy Code. - Ed.) have begun to implement debt reduction and recapitalization operations," the airline reported.

It is also noted that the carrier has raised $350 million from investors under Chapter 11 bankruptcy proceedings. The funds will be used to repay $300 million in debt.

Spirit Airlines plans to continue operating as usual, it is specified6 that passengers can continue to book tickets and fly using their accumulated loyalty points.

Earlier, on November 11, a Spirit Airlines plane that departed from Florida was attacked while landing in Haiti. The flight was attacked while attempting to land in Port-au-Prince in Haiti. After the attack, the plane was diverted to the Dominican Republic where it landed safely.

An airline spokesman said that after the plane arrived at Santiago (Dominican Republic. - Ed.) airport, an inspection revealed damage to the plane consistent with gunshot residue.

The situation in Haiti worsened after the assassination of President Jovenel Moise by unknown persons in 2021. He was shot dead in his own residence. During the investigation into the assassination, several local police officers, including those responsible for the president's security, were placed in jail. Following Moïse's death, a political crisis erupted in the State.