Spirit Airlines has announced it is going out of business after 34 years. The ultra-low-cost airline known for its bright yellow planes and deep discount fares said Saturday it has started winding down operations. It said all its flights have been canceled and customer service is no longer available. The airline had been struggling financially since the COVID-19 pandemic, weighed down by rising costs and debt. Efforts to secure a government bailout failed, leaving about 17,000 jobs at risk. Spirit's closure could impact budget-conscious travelers, especially in areas like Las Vegas and Florida, where the airline had a significant presence.

President Donald Trump says his administration is still weighing a taxpayer-funded takeover of Spirit Airlines. Speaking to reporters on Friday, Trump emphasized that a deal to rescue the financially strapped airline remained under review. The president didn't provide details but said an announcement could come as soon as later Friday or Saturday. Lawmakers from both parties and members of the Trump administration have criticized the idea of using taxpayer funds to keep the ultra-low cost airline afloat. Speculation around the likelihood of a deal emerging has mounted with every day that passes without a resolution as Spirit’s operating expenses and debts mount. An airline spokesperson declined to comment and said “Spirit is operating as usual.”