TikToker’s attempt to crowdfund Spirit Airlines has $337M in pledges

A viral TikTok campaign launched by social media creator Hunter Peterson has attracted more than $337 million in nonbinding crowdfunding pledges within just one week to revive Spirit Airlines.

What started as a joke quickly evolved into a major online movement, with Peterson’s video surpassing 7 million views. The overwhelming response even caused the campaign website to crash under the strain of heavy traffic.

Can Spirit Airlines be revived?
Despite this public enthusiasm, aviation experts warn that the plan is unlikely to succeed. 

Spirit needed a $500 million lifeline to avoid shutting down. Also, the money pledges don’t involve actual payments; they only signal interest.

The airline is currently undergoing a formal liquidation process, and its assets will be distributed by a bankruptcy court to settle outstanding debts. Spirit, which operated for over 30 years and shut down earlier this month.