Trump Floats Taxpayer-Funded Takeover of Spirit Airlines, Selling for Profit

Speaking in the Oval Office, Trump said, ‘I’d love to be able to save those jobs. I’d love to be able to save an airline.’

A Spirit Airlines 319 Airbus approaches Manchester Boston Regional Airport for a landing in Manchester, N.H. Charles Krupa/AP Photo

President Donald Trump said on April 23 that a taxpayer-funded takeover of Spirit Airlines could be an option, with the intention of reselling it when oil prices fall.

The Florida-based airline is undergoing restructuring after filing for bankruptcy protection in August 2025.