US airlines are assisting passengers and crew stranded by Spirit Airlines' shutdown. Spirit, known for its yellow planes, ceased operations due to rising fuel costs, canceling all flights. Other airlines, including American, Delta, United, and JetBlue, offered rescue fares and sought to support Spirit staff. Spirit has been through bankruptcy since 2024. The White House considered a bailout. The company cited the impact of increased oil prices. Unions criticized the failure to reach a deal. The US Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy defended the administration. Ramon, a Florida resident, considered alternative flights. Spirit Airlines launched in 1992. Between February 2025 and January 2026, it carried about 28 million passengers. Spirit announced bankruptcy in November 2024 and again in August 2025. In late February, Spirit said it had reached an agreement to restructure its debts. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz led to soaring jet fuel prices. Bradley Akubuiro said Spirit was already in a difficult position.