Family struggles to locate missing bags amid Spirit Airlines shutdown

FLORIDA, USA — A family says they’re struggling to locate missing luggage after the abrupt shutdown of Spirit Airlines, highlighting what some travelers describe as ongoing confusion in the wake of the closure.

Paul Ahrens said his son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter flew to Orlando on Friday for a cheer competition, but claim their checked bags did not arrive with them.

“They got to Orlando, and their luggage didn’t make it,” Ahrens told KHOU.

Ahrens went to the airport the following morning seeking answers, saying he was told the bags may still be at the departure airport. He alleges the airline’s ticket counter and baggage office were closed, with no staff available to assist.

“I’ve gone down to their office and it’s locked up and there’s nobody that we could talk to,” he said.

He also claims attempts to reach the airline by phone were unsuccessful.

“I’ve gotten some phone numbers for the Spirit Airlines handling office and it’s just a recorded ‘Mailbox is full,'” Ahrens said. “I haven’t been able to talk to anybody from Spirit to see about getting into their baggage claim office.”

The family says the situation has added stress to their trip, particularly with a competition scheduled the same day. While they believe they have essential items, they say they are still without other belongings.

“I know a lot of industries go through rough times,” Ahrens said. “But to shut it down and not have anybody here to wrap things up is very frustrating.”

The airline has not publicly responded to these specific claims. In the meantime, other carriers have announced limited accommodations and travel options for customers affected by the shutdown.