In a move to improve its cash flow, Spirit Airlines announced a two-pronged approach on Monday. The budget carrier struck a deal with Airbus to push back deliveries of several new planes and will furlough approximately 260 pilots starting September 1, 2024. Deferring aircraft deliveries is a significant step, particularly for an airline looking to expand its fleet and passenger capacity. Under the new agreement, Spirit will delay the arrival of all Airbus planes originally scheduled for the second quarter of 2025 through the end of 2026.
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These deliveries will now take place between 2030 and 2031. Deliveries planned for 2027 to 2029 remain unchanged. Spirit cites two main reasons for the deferral. The first is a straightforward financial decision. By delaying the arrival of new planes, the airline reduces its near-term cash outlays, giving its coffers a much-needed boost. This improved liquidity is estimated at around $340 million over the next two years. The second reason is tied to ongoing issues with Pratt & Whitney engines, which power a significant portion of Spirit's Airbus fleet.
These engines have reportedly experienced quality problems, leading to aircraft groundings. With fewer planes operational due to engine woes, Spirit has less immediate need for the additional aircraft originally scheduled for delivery. The pilot furloughs are another cost-cutting measure. With a reduced operational capacity due to grounded planes and delayed deliveries, Spirit requires fewer pilots in the short term. The furloughs are a difficult decision, impacting hundreds of employees. However, Spirit emphasizes the necessity of these measures to ensure the company's long-term health.
This news comes after Spirit's failed merger with JetBlue Airways earlier this year. The collapse of the merger deal likely played a role in Spirit's current financial situation. The airline is aiming to return to profitability and solidify its position as a competitive budget carrier. While the pilot furloughs are undoubtedly negative news for the affected employees, the aircraft delivery delays could be seen as a strategic maneuver. It allows Spirit to free up cash for current operations and potentially negotiate more favorable terms with Airbus in the future. The airline will need to navigate this period carefully, balancing cost-cutting measures with maintaining efficient operations to meet passenger demand.