Spirit Airlines saved my life, more times than I can count.

I don’t mean in a perilous, gravity-defying way reminiscent of the latest Marvel film, but in terms of expanding my dreams. From the multiple trips to Disney World every spring break during childhood with my family, to simply serving as a means of transportation for a few transformative moments that defined my early adulthood, the airline holds some of my greatest memories. 

In reflecting on these memories, given the recent news of its dismantling May 2, I realized just how crucial budget-friendly airlines are to the average American. Despite the constant criticism of airlines like Spirit, they play a vital role in the infrastructure of society by providing affordable access to travel for those of us who are not the wealthy few. In its absence, I now wonder, what does this mean for the rest of us?

As a child, I fondly remember the excitement and wonder of arriving at the Orlando airport and seeing all the Disney merchandise and advertisements. I also remember that same excitement with a smidge of my mother’s parental pride in watching........

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