Julian Richardson, a 42-year-old flight attendant based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, lost his job when Spirit Airlines ceased operations. He had worked for the carrier for nearly eight years.

Richardson told Business Insider that he had heard rumors of a possible shutdown for years and always knew it was a possibility. Despite that awareness, he said he was shocked when he received an early-morning email from Spirit announcing the closure and the cancellation of all flights.

The shutdown occurred without prior warning to employees. Richardson was not on a trip at the time, but the email informed staff that operations were winding down immediately. He said his health insurance has been halted, there is no severance pay, and the timing of his final paycheck remains unclear.

Richardson described the situation as tough but said he has managed his emotions by reminding himself that everything happens for a reason. He expressed confidence that the skills he developed as a flight attendant will help him find new employment.

Transition and side income

Richardson has already applied to several other airlines that have flight attendant openings. He is also relying on income from a side hustle, creating comedic skits on social media, which he started before the shutdown. He noted that social media income can be inconsistent, but he is working to secure more brand deals.

He said he is not ready to give up the benefits of being a flight attendant, particularly the flight benefits that allowed him and his family to travel at discounted rates. He described the independence and responsibility the job taught him, as well as the lack of micromanagement, as valuable aspects of the role.

Long-term plans

Richardson said he believes true job security only comes from working for oneself and running a recession-proof business. His long-term goal, he stated, is to own his own business. In the meantime, he remains open to other opportunities and continues to recommend the flight attendant career to others because of its flexibility, including the ability to live anywhere and work in shifts.

Spirit Airlines declined to comment on the story. Richardson said he is hopeful he will find new work soon, noting that he is still young and feels he is very good at his job.