Spirit Airlines Seeks Suspension Of PTI Airport Flights

Spirit Airlines is asking for federal approval to suspend flights from several locations, including the Piedmont Triad International Airport.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is considering requests from more than a dozen carriers to halt flights in several cities across the country, as airlines struggle with fewer passengers and revenue losses during the coronavirus pandemic. 

Spirit Airlines, which specializes in low fares, wants to include Greensboro on its list. The carrier began service at Piedmont Triad International Airport in 2018. It offered non-stop trips to Fort Lauderdale, Tampa, and Orlando, Florida.

Company spokesman Erik Hofmeyer says Spirit isn't leaving the market but is temporarily suspending the PTI route until November. He says tickets for November flights remain available on their website.

Spirit is also asking to suspend services in Asheville.

U.S. DOT officials granted tentative exemptions for some carriers, including Spirit, last month. It's unclear when they will issue a final decision.

Airlines must get approval as a condition of receiving bailout money under the federal stimulus.

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