Myrtle Beach International Airport Responds to Spirit Airlines Ceasing Operations

Myrtle Beach, SC, May 2, 2026 – Myrtle Beach International Airport (MYR) has been informed that Spirit Airlines has officially ceased operations, marking the conclusion of a nearly 30-year partnership with one of the airport’s longest-serving and most impactful airline partners.

Spirit Airlines played a significant role in shaping the air service landscape of the Grand Strand, helping to establish MYR as a vibrant and accessible destination for millions of travelers. The airport team is deeply grateful for Spirit’s decades of service and for the dedication of its employees—both in Myrtle Beach and nationwide—who supported operations and served the community.

The loss of any airline, particularly one with a legacy as long asSpirit’s at MYR, is meaningful. However, the operational volatility experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of reducing reliance on any single carrier. In 2020, Spirit accounted for nearly 50 percent of MYR’s total seat capacity, prompting airport leadership to reassess its long-term air service strategy.

In response, MYR implemented an aggressive air service development strategy focused on diversifying flight offerings, broadening the competitive landscape, and expanding travel options for passengers.

As these diversification initiatives progressed, Spirit’s share of total capacity at MYR declined to approximately 23 percent in CY2025, reflecting a more balanced mix of airline service. Airport staff remain actively engaged with both incumbent and prospective airlines, with the expectation that, as market conditions allow, many routes previously served by Spirit may be reintroduced by other carriers.

“Our thoughts are with the many employees affected by this news,” said Judi Olmstead, Director of Airports. “We are grateful to Spirit for nearly three decades of service to Myrtle Beach. At the same time, we remain confident in the resilience of MYR due to the deliberate steps taken in recent years to foster a balanced and competitive air service environment.”

MYR will continue to work closely with its airline partners to ensure strong connectivity in support of the region’s residents, visitors, and tourism-driven economy.