A grassroots effort to bring back Spirit Airlines has drawn more than $22 million in pledges within a day of the carrier’s shutdown. The campaign, “Let’s Buy Spirit,” aims to relaunch the airline as a community-owned company modeled after the Green Bay Packers football team, with support from former passengers, employees, and aviation enthusiasts who say the low-cost carrier played a key role in keeping fares affordable.

Spirit Airlines ceased operations on May 2 after years of financial pressure, failed merger attempts, and rising costs. The airline grounded its fleet, canceled all flights, and ended a 34-year run, leaving passengers scrambling for alternatives. Its final revenue flight landed at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport shortly before the closure was announced.

Organizers behind the campaign say the goal is to give everyday travelers a stake in the future of low-cost aviation, branding Spirit as “The People’s Carrier.” The effort has gained traction on social media, where supporters are sharing plans for a restructured airline, though key details remain unclear.

The proposal would shift ownership away from traditional investors toward broad public participation. While the idea has sparked interest, aviation experts note the industry’s high costs, regulatory barriers, and operational challenges would make any revival difficult.

Supporters argue Spirit’s disappearance could drive up ticket prices, pointing to the airline’s long-standing role in pushing competitors to lower fares through its ultra-low-cost model.