President Donald Trump walks to speak with reporters as he prepares to board Marine One on the South Lawn of the White House, Friday, May 1, 2026, in Washington.
President Donald Trump says his administration is still weighing a taxpayer-funded takeover of Spirit Airlines “but only if it's a good deal” for the government. Trump 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 president's 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 every day that passes without a resolution. An airline spokesperson declined to comment and says “Spirit is operating as usual.” Some U.S. airlines, meanwhile, say they will step in to support Spirit customers if the airline goes under.