Spirit Airlines to Exit Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport in December
Spirit Airlines has announced it will officially end service at Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport (MSP) after December 1, 2025. The move comes as part of a broad restructuring following the airline’s second Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing in less than a year.
Spirit’s Rise and Decline at MSP
Spirit entered the Twin Cities market in 2012 and quickly became a go-to for travelers looking for budget-friendly flights. At its peak in 2017, the airline offered more than 400 flights per month from MSP. But that momentum slowed dramatically after 2020, when the pandemic reshaped air travel. Around the same time, Minnesota-based Sun Country Airlines expanded aggressively, filling much of the low-cost demand in the region.
Bankruptcy and Restructuring
In 2025, Spirit filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy twice, forcing the company to cut service in nearly a dozen markets. The airline has also announced plans to furlough nearly 1,800 flight attendants as part of its downsizing strategy. For MSP, the drawdown was especially noticeable: from hundreds of flights per month just a few years ago, Spirit operated only about 50 per month this year.
What This Means for Minnesota Travelers
With Spirit exiting, Sun Country and Delta remain the dominant players at MSP. Travelers who relied on Spirit’s ultra-low-cost fares may see fewer budget options moving forward. The big question is whether Sun Country will expand even more to capture Spirit’s market share—or if overall airfare will creep upward without Spirit in the mix.
Looking Ahead
While Spirit’s departure closes a chapter in MSP’s airline history, it also highlights the ongoing changes in air travel and competition. For Twin Cities travelers, it may mean fewer budget options, but also a potential for more growth from hometown carriers.
If you’re considering a move to Minnesota—or planning your next chapter here—air travel access is always an important factor. I help buyers and sellers across the Twin Cities navigate not just real estate, but the lifestyle that comes with living in this region.
