⚠️ 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 in Texas
Spirit Airlines operated flights from Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW) and Houston (IAH/HOU), employing gate agents, mechanics, ramp workers, and based crew in the Dallas and Houston metro areas. Like Florida, Texas has not expanded Medicaid — but ACA subsidies are fully available.
Texas ACA Marketplace: What's Available
| Carrier | Coverage Area | Plan Types |
|---|---|---|
| BCBS of Texas | Most TX counties | PPO, HMO, Blue Advantage |
| Ambetter (Celtic/Centene) | Most TX counties | HMO |
| Molina Healthcare | Dallas, Houston, San Antonio | HMO |
| Oscar Health | Dallas, Houston, Austin | EPO, PPO |
| Cigna | Dallas, Houston, others | HMO, PPO |
Estimated Costs: Dallas, Individual, Age 35 (No Tobacco)
| 2025 Income | Plan Tier | Est. Monthly Premium |
|---|---|---|
| $20,000 – $30,000 | Silver + CSR | $20 – $70 |
| $30,001 – $45,000 | Silver | $70 – $180 |
| $45,001 – $65,000 | Silver or Gold | $180 – $350 |
| $65,001 – $90,000 | Gold | $320 – $500 |
Texas coverage gap warning: Texas has not expanded Medicaid. If your projected 2025 income is below $15,060 (100% FPL), you may fall in the coverage gap and not qualify for ACA subsidies or Medicaid. A broker can help you find options including county indigent health programs and community health centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Former Spirit Dallas employees can enroll in ACA marketplace plans through HealthCare.gov during the 60-day Special Enrollment Period. BCBS of Texas, Ambetter, Oscar, and Cigna all serve the DFW area. Subsidies are available for incomes above 100% FPL. Texas has not expanded Medicaid.
Texas has not expanded Medicaid. Adult Spirit employees in Houston without dependent children generally do not qualify for Texas Medicaid regardless of income. However, ACA marketplace plans with premium tax credits are available for incomes at or above 100% FPL (~$15,060/yr for an individual).
60 days from the date Spirit Airlines coverage ended. Enroll during this Special Enrollment Period for ACA marketplace coverage. Missing the deadline means waiting until November 1 open enrollment.
BCBS of Texas offers the broadest PPO network in DFW. Ambetter offers the lowest premiums. Oscar has strong telehealth and digital tools. The best plan depends on your doctors, income level, and how much you want to pay monthly vs. out-of-pocket. A licensed broker can compare all options for your specific ZIP code.