The recent shutdown of Spirit Airlines on May 2, attributed to skyrocketing fuel prices, has left many travelers in a lurch during the busy summer season. The national average gas price has surged to $4.56 per gallon, reflecting a more than 30% increase since the onset of the conflict in Iran, which has disrupted oil supplies. As a result, many Americans are facing higher ticket prices and fewer travel options. Travel expert Lindsay Owens noted that the situation reflects a broader economic distress felt by travelers across the country. In the wake of Spirit's closure, passengers are scrambling to find alternative flights, often at much higher prices. For instance, Chelsea Blackmore, who initially booked a $500 round trip on Spirit, ended up paying $800 for Southwest tickets that lacked checked baggage. Meanwhile, companies like Flixbus are experiencing a 30% increase in passengers as travelers seek more affordable options. Despite the financial strain, demand for vacations remains robust, with many travelers willing to incur credit card debt to maintain their travel plans. Experts caution that ticket prices are likely to keep rising due to reduced competition in the market.