Former Spirit CEO Ben Baldanza Dies at 62 After ALS Battle

Ben Baldanza, the former CEO of Spirit Airlines, has passed away at 62 after battling Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His death was announced in a LinkedIn post on Wednesday morning. He was known for reshaping Spirit into the ultra-low-cost airline it is today. Baldanza led Spirit from 2005, making bold moves like unbundling fares and adding fees for services such as seat selection and baggage. These decisions, though controversial, turned Spirit into one of the most profitable airlines in the US.

Baldanza's leadership style was unique. He often referred to Spirit as the "dollar store of the sky" and his aircraft as "buses with wings." Despite facing criticism from passengers and the government, he stood firm on his approach. His innovative strategies made air travel more affordable, especially for budget-conscious travelers. His success earned him a place on the board of JetBlue Airways, where he continued to influence the industry.

Baldanza also launched a popular podcast, Airlines Confidential, where he shared his insights. In 2022, he was diagnosed with ALS, which progressively affected his health. Despite this, he continued contributing to his podcast using AI-powered technology to replicate his voice. In his last episode, he shared, "The energy I do have needs to be spent with my family and on my health."

"Ben was a pioneering and visionary airline executive who made air travel affordable for millions of people," said Scott McCartney, host of the podcast. Baldanza's work and wit left a lasting impact on the airline industry. He is survived by his wife, Marcia, their son, Enzo, and his extended family.

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