Spirit Airlines to End Service at Rochester Airport in January 2026

Rochester, N.Y. — Spirit Airlines will cease operations at the Frederick Douglass Greater Rochester International Airport starting January 7, 2026. This decision follows the airline’s recent bankruptcy filing, marking its second Chapter 11 declaration in under a year.

Andy Moore, the airport director, confirmed the news in a statement on Thursday. He expressed disappointment but wished Spirit well as it navigates its financial challenges. Spirit Airlines launched its service in Rochester in October 2022, operating daily nonstop flights to Orlando and later adding routes to Fort Lauderdale and Myrtle Beach.

Spirit spokesperson Cameryn Junck stated that this move is part of the airline’s strategy to better position itself for the future. It includes adjustments to the 2026 schedule to align with a reduced operating fleet and focus on better-performing markets. The airline plans to inform passengers with affected travel plans about their options, including refunds.

Despite Spirit’s departure, the airport will maintain service to Orlando. Southwest Airlines currently offers two nonstop flights to Orlando every Saturday, with plans to increase that to daily flights starting in January. Additionally, Avelo Airlines operates multiple weekly flights to Lakeland/Orlando from Rochester.

Moore added that the airport is committed to working with existing airline partners to attract more nonstop flights to the Orlando area.