Spirit Airlines cancellations leave travelers stranded
By Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on February 18, 2026
Spirit Airlines has canceled more than 250 flights since Friday, February 13, citing shortages of flight crews and attendants.
Passengers using South Florida airports have borne the worst of the disruptions. Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport saw 89 cancellations over the Presidents Day weekend, with 11 more by Tuesday morning, February 17. Orlando International and Palm Beach International also reported notable effects, and many Palm Beach travelers to Atlantic City and Newark were impacted. Disruptions include both cancellations and delays and remain ongoing as the airline continues to adjust schedules.
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Spirit Airlines has experienced significant operational disruption since Friday, February 13, citing shortages of flight crews and attendants. The airline has canceled more than 250 flights over this period, with impacts concentrated at major Florida airports.
Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport recorded 89 Spirit cancellations over the Presidents Day weekend. As of the morning of Tuesday, February 17, a further 11 cancellations were reported there, placing the airport among those with the highest cancellation volumes nationally during this timeframe. Orlando International Airport also experienced notable disruption linked to Spirit’s staffing challenges.
Palm Beach International Airport reported travelers heading to destinations such as Atlantic City and Newark encountering cancellations. In addition to widespread cancellations, the airline’s staffing shortfalls have also resulted in delays across its network.
As of February 17, the situation remained active, with Spirit and affected airports responding to crew availability constraints and the continuing impact on schedules. Passengers traveling on Spirit from South Florida and Orlando should anticipate potential schedule changes while the airline works through ongoing staffing limitations.
Key facts:
- Start of disruption: Friday, February 13
- Scope: Over 250 Spirit cancellations since the start date
- Airports notably affected: Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International (89 cancellations over the holiday weekend, plus 11 by Tuesday morning), Orlando International, and Palm Beach International
- Cause: Shortages of flight crews and attendants
- Impact: Both cancellations and delays across the network
Know your rights
These are your air passenger rights:
When your flight's disrupted, you have rights. Most passenger protection laws cover the following:
Rerouting or refund
If your flight is canceled, your airline must provide an alternative. Some laws say you can choose a full refund instead.
Food and essential care
Providing food and drinks is a basic right under many regulations. Typically after a delay of a few hours.
Accommodation
Some passenger rights say the airline must provide accommodation when your journey is delayed overnight.
Compensation
Good passenger rights ensure passengers get fairly compensated for delays and cancellations. Try our compensation check and find out how much money we can get you.
This advice is provided to help you if your flight is delayed or canceled. However, the exact care and compensation you are entitled to will depend on your specific circumstances and flight. Always follow the directions of your airline, particularly with regard to check-in and boarding times.
Quick facts
Disruption:
Delays and Cancellations
Cause:
Other
Compensation:
Not eligible for compensation
Status:
Current disruption
Start date:
2026-02-13
Airlines affected:
Spirit Airlines
Airports affected:
Palm Beach International Airport, Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport, Orlando International Airport
Checked by:
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated:
February 18, 2026
