WASHINGTON, April 24, 2026 — Richie Johnsen, Air Transport General Vice President of the IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers), North America’s largest airline union, issued the following statement regarding potential federal relief for Spirit Airlines:
“Spirit Airlines workers, including IAM ramp service employees, are the backbone of this airline and a lifeline for millions of travelers who depend on affordable air service.
“Every day, our members help make air travel accessible for working families, students and communities who rely on Spirit to stay connected. When Spirit flies, more Americans have access to affordable air travel.
“The IAM Union strongly supports federal relief for Spirit Airlines, but it must come with clear, enforceable protections for workers, just like the CARES Act’s Airline Payroll Support Program. That means no furloughs, no layoffs, and no shifting the burden onto the very people who keep this airline running.
“We’ve seen this model work before. Protecting workers also protects service. Keeping experienced aviation workers on the job ensures reliability, safety and the affordability passengers count on.
“IAM Union members at Spirit, and all frontline aviation workers, did not cause this crisis. They should not be the ones forced to pay the price. Any federal assistance must prioritize protecting jobs, preserving pay and benefits, and maintaining the affordable air service that millions of Americans rely on.
“The IAM Union stands ready to work with policymakers to ensure any relief package puts workers and passengers first.”
The IAM Union (International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers) represents approximately 600,000 active and retired members in aerospace, defense, airlines, shipbuilding, rail, transit, healthcare, automotive, and other industries across North America.
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