Ed Bastian said Spirit failed because it offered a “bad product,” arguing its collapse reflects structural weakness in the low-cost airline model rather than just higher fuel prices.
Rising jet fuel costs are still widening the split between airlines chasing premium travelers and carriers competing mainly on price, according to the Delta CEO.
Spirit’s downfall, in Bastian’s view, underscores mounting pressure on budget airlines as costs rise and travelers increasingly reward stronger service and higher-end offerings.
Was Spirit's collapse due to its 'bad product' or a casualty of fuel prices and government actions?
With Spirit gone and rivals adding premium seats, is the era of ultra-cheap American air travel officially over?