⚠️ 60-Day Deadline: Spirit Airlines employees who lost coverage when the airline shut down have exactly 60 days from the date coverage ended to enroll in a new health plan through a Special Enrollment Period (SEP). After that window closes, you must wait until ACA open enrollment (November 1). Don't wait.
Spirit Airlines' Florida Footprint
Spirit Airlines was headquartered in Miramar, Florida and operated its largest hub at Fort Lauderdale/Hollywood International Airport (FLL). Orlando International (MCO) and Tampa International (TPA) were also major Spirit stations. The majority of Spirit's ~10,000 employees were based in Florida.
Florida Health Insurance: What You Need to Know
Florida has not expanded Medicaid under the ACA. This has two important implications for former Spirit employees:
- If your projected 2025 income is below 100% FPL ($15,060/individual), you may fall in the coverage gap — not qualifying for Medicaid or ACA subsidies. Short-term plans or a county health department are your main options.
- If your income is 100% FPL or above, you fully qualify for ACA premium tax credits — and Florida has several competitive carriers.
Top ACA Carriers for Former Spirit Employees in Florida
| Carrier | Coverage Area | Plan Types | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Florida Blue (BCBS of FL) | Statewide | HMO, PPO, BlueOptions | Largest network in FL; many specialists |
| Ambetter (Sunshine Health) | Most FL counties | HMO | Often lowest premiums; limited network |
| Molina Healthcare | Select counties | HMO | Good value in South FL |
| Oscar Health | South FL, Tampa | EPO, PPO | Strong app/telehealth; physician choice |
| Celtic Insurance (Bright Health) | Select counties | HMO | Competitive premiums in some areas |
Estimated Monthly Costs: Fort Lauderdale Area, Individual, Age 38
| Income | Plan | Carrier | Est. Monthly |
|---|---|---|---|
| $25,000 | Silver (CSR) | Ambetter | ~$35 – $60 |
| $35,000 | Silver | Florida Blue | ~$90 – $140 |
| $50,000 | Silver | Florida Blue | ~$200 – $280 |
| $70,000 | Gold | Oscar | ~$380 – $480 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Florida Spirit employees can enroll in ACA marketplace plans through HealthCare.gov during their 60-day Special Enrollment Period. Top carriers include Florida Blue, Ambetter, Molina, and Oscar. Florida has not expanded Medicaid, so employees need to be above 100% FPL to qualify for ACA subsidies.
Florida has not expanded Medicaid under the ACA. Unemployed Spirit workers whose income falls below 100% FPL ($15,060/yr for an individual) may fall in the coverage gap. Options include county health departments, community health centers, and short-term health plans. A broker can help identify all available options in your county.
Florida Blue is the largest carrier with the broadest network in Broward County (Fort Lauderdale). For cost-focused employees, Ambetter often has the lowest premiums in the area. Oscar Health offers strong digital tools and physician choice. A broker can compare exact plans and prices for your specific ZIP code.
Possibly — if projected 2025 income qualifies. At an income of $20,000–$25,000, ACA Silver plans with Cost Sharing Reductions can be nearly free. However, unlike Medicaid expansion states, Florida does not offer free Medicaid for adults without children or disabilities at any income level.