President Donald Trump told reporters on Friday, May 8, 2026, that he would still like to see the U.S. government rescue Spirit Airlines, though the airline's creditors reportedly balked at his proposed 'America First' terms, according to a Forbes report.
Spirit Airlines, which filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in November 2025, has been seeking a path forward. Trump's proposal reportedly included conditions such as requiring the airline to prioritize American jobs and manufacturing, but creditors rejected these terms as too restrictive.
The White House did not immediately comment on the creditors' rejection. Spirit Airlines has continued operations during bankruptcy proceedings, and a court hearing on its restructuring plan is scheduled for later this month.
