A TikTok campaign, started by content creator Hunter Peterson, has secured over $132 million in non-binding pledges to purchase and revive Spirit Airlines after the budget carrier ceased operations.
The campaign, which aims for a community-owned model, has attracted interest from more than 170,000 people, with Peterson’s initial video reaching 6.1 million views.
Spirit Airlines announced on May 2 that it was ceasing operations immediately due to years of financial losses and an inability to secure hundreds of millions of dollars in liquidity.
The plan faces significant legal and financial obstacles, including rigorous U.S. Department of Transportation regulations and the need for over $1 billion to settle debts and resume flights.
Critics question the validity of the non-binding pledges and the viability of the proposed leadership, while supporters emphasize the importance of maintaining a low-cost alternative in the market.