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We’ll take it: a TikToker rallies pledges to buy Spirit Airlines after itsabrupt weekend collapse
After Spirit Airlines abruptly shut down, TikToker Hunter Peterson proposed a crowdfunding initiative to buy the airline, suggesting that 20% of American adults contribute. Within hours, over 36,000 people pledged nearly $23 million, even though these pledges are non-binding. Peterson humorously reached out for help, aware that relaunching an airline requires billions and significant expertise.
Key points
- Spirit Airlines canceled all flights and laid off 17,000 employees on Saturday.
- Hunter Peterson posted on TikTok proposing to buy Spirit Airlines with contributions from the public.
- He called the initiative 'Spirit 2.0: Owned by the People.'
- Within hours, 36,000 people pledged nearly $23 million, although the pledges are non-binding.
- Peterson humorously acknowledged the need for expertise in aviation and legal matters to move forward.
Why it matters
- The increase in TikTok's influence as a platform for grassroots movements mirrors similar social media-driven campaigns.
- The airline industry has seen significant disruptions in recent years, including the COVID-19 pandemic's impact.
- Crowdfunding as a means to support businesses has been trending in various industries and is likely to continue.
Peterson's light-hearted initiative highlights the public's desire for community-driven solutions amid corporate failures, yet the practicality of such ideas in aviation remains to be seen.