- Flight Disruptions
- Spirit Airlines cancellations leave travelers stranded
Spirit Airlines cancellations leave travelers stranded
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Possibly eligible for compensation
By Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Last updated on February 18, 2026
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Affected airports
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Affected airlines
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Affected airports
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Affected airlines
What Happened
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.
Passengers affected by this flight disruption may be eligible for compensation of up to $650 under passenger rights regulations. Eligibility depends on the circumstances of the disruption.
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Flight Disruption Details
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
Summary
Disruption
Delays and Cancellations
Cause
Other
Status
Current disruption
Compensation
Possibly eligible for compensation
Airlines affected
Spirit Airlines
Airports affected
Palm Beach International Airport, Fort Lauderdale–Hollywood International Airport, Orlando International Airport
Start date
2026-02-13
Checked by
Alice Mariscotti-Wyatt
Date updated
February 18, 2026
What To Do If Your Flight Is Cancelled
If you're traveling to or from the European Union, here's what to do when your flight is unexpectedly scrubbed:
Collect proof that your flight was canceled, e.g. boarding pass, vouchers and any other travel documents.
Get the airline to provide written confirmation of the cancellation and reasons behind it.
Request an alternate flight to your destination - or a refund.
Make a note of the arrival time at your destination.
Ask the airline to pay for your meals and refreshments.
Don't sign anything or accept any offers that may waive your rights.
Get the airline to provide you with a hotel room, if needed.
Keep your receipts if your canceled flight ends up costing you extra money.
