Spirit Airlines ceased operations on May 2, leaving Arnold Palmer Regional Airport in Latrobe, Pa., without any commercial service for the first time since 2011. The tiny field, about 40 miles southeast of Pittsburgh, is midway through a renovation that will double its gates from one to two. Residents who prized short security lines and free parking now still face a void.

During its 15‑year tenure, Spirit flew routes to Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Las Vegas, peaking in 2015 with 356,000 passengers. Pandemic‑induced demand never recovered; last year under 120,000 travelers used the airport and the carrier’s sole Myrtle Beach flight ran five times weekly. Airport chief Moe Haas anticipates cutting roughly 20 significant jobs from the 56‑person staff.

Haas says talks are under way with undisclosed airlines, though the airport does not qualify for Essential Air Service because Pittsburgh lies within 70 miles. The ongoing expansion, slated to finish later this year, adds a second gate and an optional third, a move officials hope will attract a new carrier and revive the modest economic boost once provided by Spirit flights.