“Temporary turbulence”: Former Spirit Airlines employees navigate job search months after shutdown

It’s been over three months since Spirit Airlines signature yellow planes made their final flight from Orlando International Airport. When the company suddenly shut down in May, more than four thousand people lost their jobs in Florida, including 1600 workers in and around Orlando International Airport.The three months since have been turbulent for many former Spirit employees, even as the aviation industry itself continues to see growth.

“When we lost our jobs, it didn’t only feel like we were mourning it for ourselves, but it felt like we were mourning for each other as well,” said Chris Bell, who had worked as a flight attendant with Spirit Airlines for 8 years.In the three months since, Bell has found work at a local assisted living facility as he continues to hunt for another flight attendant role. “I am going to be a flight attendant again.

I don’t question that. But it was very hard to lose that overnight,” said Bell, “It’s very competitive to get into an airline.