Union Worries Major Airline Might Dominate Newark Airport As Spirit Goes Bankrupt

NEWARK, NJ — One of the largest labor unions in New Jersey says its members have deep concerns about potential corporate “consolidation” as bankrupt Spirit Airlines makes its departure from Newark Airport.

Spirit Airlines – which became known for offering budget airfare – recently announced that it is going out of business after 33 years, a decision that impacts nearly 17,000 employees. The company said all flights have been canceled.

Spirit has announced 201 layoffs in Newark in the wake of its high-profile and abrupt shutdown.

• Related: Spirit Lays Off 200 Workers In Newark As Airline Goes Out Of Business

The bankruptcy of Spirit Airlines means that Newark Airport is losing its second-largest carrier behind United Airlines, which maintains a hub there.

“This moment requires us to take stock of airline consolidation at Newark Airport, and make sure we chart a path forward that benefits the passengers, workers and our economy,” urged Ana Maria Hill, New Jersey state director at 32BJ SEIU.

Hill elaborated on the union’s concerns in a statement on Tuesday:

“New Jersey workers and passengers do not need less competition at Newark Airport – they need more. United Airlines already controls an overwhelming share of operations at Newark, and travelers and airport workers experience higher prices, fewer choices, overcrowding, operational failures and growing pressure to cut costs on the backs of workers. As the space left behind by Spirit is reassigned, federal regulators and the Port Authority must ensure these slots do not simply further consolidate United’s control at Newark. Those opportunities should go to other carriers – especially airlines willing to increase competition and help bring down prices for working families.”

“The future of Newark Airport cannot be built around one dominant airline controlling the market while workers and passengers pay the price,” Hill said. “We need an airport system that values competition, affordability, reliability, and respect for the workers who keep this industry running every single day.”

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.