Spirit Airlines has officially ceased operations, citing a failure to secure a federal aid package amid soaring jet fuel prices. The airline expressed disappointment over its wind-down after 34 years of operation. Prior to this announcement, President Donald Trump indicated negotiations for a potential $500 million bailout that would give the federal government significant equity in Spirit. Meanwhile, the Association of Value Airlines (AVA), representing budget airlines like Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air, is now advocating for $2.5 billion in federal assistance to help offset the rising costs of jet fuel, which are projected to remain above $4 per gallon. The AVA emphasized that value airlines play a crucial role in maintaining competitive pricing across the industry, warning that their decline could lead to higher fares for consumers. The situation has sparked criticism from larger carriers, which argue that government support for budget airlines may undermine those that have successfully managed costs. AVA countered that the current fuel price surge is an external shock affecting their business model, not a result of poor management.