By Mark Huffman
ConsumerAffairs.Com
June 16, 2010
In the wake of a pilots strike that began Saturday, Spirit Airlines has cancelled all its flights through Thursday, June 17.
"Spirit is processing future flight credits for customers for the full amount of their unflown flight purchase, and is also giving them a $100 future flight credit," the airline said in a statement.
Customers who prefer a full refund may call 1 (800) 772-7117 for assistance.
Customers who made their reservation prior to May 11, 2010, and purchased travel insurance can call Travel Guard at +1 (866) 877-3191 to discuss coverage questions and to start an insurance claim, the airline said.
"We regret that Spirit management's failure to take seriously its pilots' contributions to the company has forced us to strike, but, one way or another, we will make our value clear," said Capt. Andy Nelson, vice-chairman of the Spirit pilots' unit of the Air Line Pilots Association, Int'l (ALPA). "For the sake of the passengers who have been inconvenienced by this situation, we urge Spirit management to get serious and present a contract proposal that is fair and equitable for all of its pilots."
The union claims management continues to seriously misrepresent its latest pilot contract proposal, which it said would force pilots to work more hours and pay more to provide health care for their families, while company profits continue to soar.
Other airlines have been picking up much of the passenger traffic from Spirit. The Wall Street Journal quotes US Airways President Scott Kirby as saying he expects the strike "to be settled soon."
