FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CENTENNIAL, Colo. – May 2, 2026 – After 34 years of service to the traveling public, the closure of Spirit Airlines and the loss of more than 14,000 jobs mark a deeply painful moment for the aviation industry and the workforce that sustained the carrier through decades of operation.
The shutdown of Spirit Airlines is devastating news for the highly skilled Aircraft Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) who built their careers there, as well as families who depend on the well-earned wages and benefits of those union jobs. These are professionals who upheld the highest standards of safety, reliability, and craftsmanship every day, and today's events are no reflection of their talent, dedication, or value to this industry.
The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) stands firmly with the Spirit Airlines AMTs during this difficult time. AMFA will continue to support these technicians as they navigate the uncertainty ahead and work to connect them with aircraft maintenance opportunities across the industry under the AMFA umbrella. No AMT should have to face this transition alone.
While this is a challenging moment, it is important to recognize that the aviation industry continues to face a significant shortage of qualified Aircraft Maintenance Technicians. Spirit's AMTs are experienced, licensed, and highly sought after. Their skills do not disappear when an airline shuts down, and we are confident many will find new opportunities where their expertise is urgently needed.
AMFA remains committed to advocating for these professionals, protecting our craft, and ensuring that skilled union technicians continue to have a strong future in aviation.
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The Aircraft Mechanics Fraternal Association (AMFA) is a craft-oriented, independent aviation union representing Aircraft Maintenance Technicians/Engineers and related skilled trade groups in the aviation industry. These professionals work directly on aircraft, components, support equipment, and facilities. AMFA is committed to elevating the professional standing of technicians/engineers while achieving progressive improvements in wages, benefits, and working conditions for the skilled professionals it represents. For more information about AMFA, visit www.amfanational.org.
