How Spirit Airlines' demise will benefit rivals — and raise airfares even more - CNBC

Spirit Airlines' sudden collapse gave rivals immediate route and slot opportunities, allowing them to absorb former Spirit customers and raise fares. Airlines had been preparing network changes and, after the shutdown, rapidly filed new schedules and claimed airport slots, accelerating consolidation in the low-cost segment. Analysts warn the combination of bankruptcies, acquisitions and this rapid reallocation will strengthen carriers that can reassign capacity and push fares higher on many leisure routes.