How the Collapse of Spirit Airlines Is Impacting Travelers and the Wider Aviation Industry
Ask students: Who is affected by Spirit Airlines going out of business? What role did increasing jet fuel prices play in Spirit's decision to close its doors?
Spirit Airlines has officially shut down. The low-cost airline went out of business this weekend after 34 years. It’s left members of the flying public in a tricky bind and the larger industry with some serious questions. Stephanie Sy has our look at how we got here and what comes next for consumers.
View the transcript of the story.
NOTE: If you are short on time, watch the video and complete this See, Think, Wonder activity: What did you notice? What did the story make you think about? What would you want to learn more about?
Warm-up Questions
- When did Spirit Airlines shut down?
- Who is affected by Spirit Airlines going out of business?
- What role did increasing jet fuel prices play in Spirit's decision to close its doors?
- How did the closing of the Strait of Hormuz affect Spirit Airlines' bottom line (the company's income)?
- Why were low-cost airlines like Spirit Airlines an attractive option for travelers?
Essential Questions
- How should the government support businesses that are struggling? Should the government have bailed Spirit Airlines out as they have done in the past with the banks and automobile industry?
- In addition to Spirit Airlines shuttering, how has the war in Iran affected businesses and the economy overall?
Media literacy: What is The Points Guy? What is Nick Ewen's role at The Points Guy? How could you find out more about this company?
What Students Can Do
Conduct some research around why airlines have long been known as a difficult industry when it comes to turning a profit. Ask your family or teachers/staff in your school if they recall other airlines going out of business when they were growing up. What were the circumstances surrounding those closures?
Republished with permission from PBS News Hour Classroom.
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