Spirit Airlines canceled nearly half of its flights scheduled to depart Monday from Orlando International Airport in a “proactive” effort to recover from system-wide disruptions that began during the weekend.
The South Florida-based airline saw breakdowns that affected its nationwide and international network during the weekend and was still responding with corrective measures into Monday. By early afternoon, Spirit canceled nearly half of 70 scheduled departures from Orlando, attempting to put the airline back on track.
Spirits’ turmoil, which triggered tempers at Orlando International Airport, follows those of Southwest, American, Frontier and other airlines this summer, delaying or stranding large numbers of travelers.
“I think the question of why it’s happening is a combination of weather with afternoon storms and lightning; airline staffs are reduced by COVID not just here but across the nation and you’ve got a huge spike in travel,” said Carolyn Fennell, Orlando airport spokesperson. “It’s all of that, a perfect storm.”
Fennell said the airport’s ambassadors and operations staff are assisting Spirit travelers at the airline’s ticket counters.
In all, Spirit canceled 63 arriving and departing flights Monday, Fennell said.
Airlines have blamed their troubles on staff shortages aggravated by the ongoing pandemic as travel across the U.S. rebounds sharply from the collapse triggered by COVID-19. They boosted their daily flights steadily while attempting to rebuild pilot numbers, ground crew and other staff that were depleted by the months of sharply reduced demand for travel during the height of the pandemic.
Spirit also cited weather for delays and flights cancellations that started this weekend.
“We’re working around the clock to get back on track in the wake of some travel disruptions over the weekend due to a series of weather and operational challenges,” said Field Sutton, a Spirit spokesperson.
“We needed to make proactive cancellations to some flights across the network, but the majority of flights are still scheduled as planned,” Sutton said.
Late Monday, Spirit updated its website with directions for travelers whose flights were affected.
“Travel Advisory: We are experiencing operational challenges in some areas of our network, please check your email and flight status before going to the airport,” the update states. “Due to long lines at the airport, the fastest way for assistance is to click here and select “Let’s Chat.”
There was little indication from the airline whether more orderly service would play out through Tuesday.
Fort Lauderdale’s airport, Spirit’s home, also reported significant cancelations Monday by the airline.
Spirit has a solid grip on ranking as the second-busiest airline at Orlando International Airport. Southwest is the busiest, while Frontier, American and Delta rank third, fourth and fifth.
Spirit also has a large presence at Orlando’s airport, with 1,200 workers and a base for flight crews.
kspear@orlandosentinel.com
