NEW YORK: Spirit Airlines cut its revenue and margin forecast for the third quarter, as a resurgence in Covid-19 cases drags booking trends and staff shortages force the airline to operate fewer flights.

       The company forecast a hit of about US$80mil (RM339.02mil) to US$100mil (RM423.78mil) to revenue, driving down its shares about 2% in extended trading, after adverse weather and airport staffing shortages forced it to cancel 2,826 flights between July 30 and Aug 9.

       After laying off or furloughing staff during the height of the pandemic last year, several US airlines are now reporting workforce shortages, flight cancellations and delays despite receiving billions in government bailouts.

       Spirit also flagged higher costs, driven by re-accommodation expenses for guests whose travel plans were impacted.

       The company now expects an adjusted loss before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation margin of 8% to 1%, compared with its previous forecast for a profit margin of 10% to 15%. — Reuters