Spirit Airlines is set to welcome a new leader as it moves forward from its recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Dave Davis, who previously served as President and Chief Financial Officer of Sun Country Airlines, will assume the role of CEO effective April 21, replacing Ted Christie, who has stepped down. This leadership change coincides with the appointment of six new board members at the airline.
Robert Milton, the Chairman of Spirit Airlines, expressed enthusiasm about Davis joining the team, highlighting his extensive experience in the airline industry. “He brings with him a wealth of experience and a solid track record of accomplishments from his many years in the airline industry. [Davis’] background at both Northwest Airlines and, more recently, at Sun Country Airlines, positions him well to lead Spirit’s continued transformation.”
Davis expressed his excitement about joining Spirit Airlines at a pivotal moment, stating he looks forward to working with the airline’s employees to provide value to passengers, shareholders, and the wider community.
Ted Christie vacated his position as both President and CEO amid the restructuring that ended Spirit’s bankruptcy proceedings. The board initiated a search for a new CEO following the resignation of Christie and Matthew Klein, who was the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. Klein was succeeded by Rana Ghosh, who was the Senior Vice President and Chief Transformation Officer.
In addition to the CEO search, Spirit Airlines announced other executive appointments. Duncan Dee, a former executive at Air Canada, will assume the role of Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications. Meanwhile, Trey Urbahn, who has held leadership roles at several airlines, including Azul Brazilian Airlines and JetBlue, will join as a Senior Commercial Advisor.
Reflecting on the changes, Milton thanked outgoing executives Christie and Klein for their contributions during challenging periods, such as the pandemic and a recent corporate restructuring. “Ted [Christie] has kept the company together through challenging times, and for this we wish him all the best going forward,” concluded Milton.
Spirit Airlines, which filed for voluntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy on November 18, emerged from it on March 12, achieving a $795 million debt reduction during the process.
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