My name is Thomas Rickman, and I was a pilot at Spirit Airlines for 18 years. It was my first airline, and the plan was to retire there. Spirit has been in bankruptcy since the government blocked our merger with JetBlue. We were all shocked when Spirit Airlines abruptly ceased operations Saturday morning, and there are so many amazing people without jobs or a source of income. There is no severance package, no insurance, no nothing. Just rumor of a final paycheck that we are hoping will clear.

The airlines are all about seniority. I lost 18 years of seniority and will start over and at the very bottom of any airline that hires me. Back to a First Officer on 1st-year pay. Also, it will take 8-12 months before actually getting back in the airplane seat and making a paycheck.

I am the caretaker of my parents and pay all of their bills and help them with daily duties. This job allowed me to work when I needed and then be at home to help them. I am currently trying to defer student loans, mortgage payments, eliminate debt, sell personal items, and do everything I can just to keep food on the table. Unfortunately, due to my parents' conditions, I spend several thousands of dollars a month just on insurance, care, medications, etc., for them.

I am actively seeking employment at another airline and a local job in the meantime. Pretty soon, credit cards will be maxed out, and it will be hard to survive. Whatever you can spare, I will truly appreciate it. I know there are a lot of people struggling right now, so anything is truly and sincerely appreciated. Thank you for your time and consideration.