Spirit Airlines has formally moved to transfer its final two preferential-use gates at O’Hare International Airport (ORD), according to court documents revealed yesterday. In the deal, the airline looks to move gates G12 and G14 to United Airlines for US$30.2 million.
Two major airlines submitted bids for gates G12 and G14. Spirit Airlines said United Airlines offered the highest and best combination of price and operational fit.
The carrier completed a similar transaction in December 2025, selling its other two preferential gates at ORD, G8 and G10. They were reassigned to American Airlines for $30 million.
By securing the two remaining gates, United Airlines is effectively stopping American Airlines from gaining a competitive advantage with four-gate block. Gate space is valuable at ORD, and any increased access directly translates to better schedule flexibility.
Despite shedding its preferred gates, Spirit Airlines has made it clear that it is not abandoning the Chicago market. Instead, the carrier will transition to common-use gates to reduce fixed costs.
After struggling with dwindling cash reserves, Spirit Airlines filed for bankruptcy for the second time in August 2025. The company has already exited 14 airports and rejected leases for over 80 aircraft to preserve cash.
The US Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York is scheduled to hold a hearing to finalise the transfer on 24 February 2026. Spirit Airlines said it will use the $30.2 million assignment fee to prepay term loans.
