American Airlines has acquired two gates—G8 and G10 in Terminal 3—at Chicago O’Hare International Airport from Spirit Airlines for $30 million. The deal was approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York on December 8, 2025, and gives the carrier additional capacity at one of its largest hubs.
The purchase is a strategic response to a prior gate reallocation that reduced American’s footprint at ORD. By adding two gates, the airline can increase flight frequency, reduce slot congestion, and better serve its growing network of domestic and international routes. The move also positions American to compete more aggressively with United Airlines, which currently dominates the Chicago hub.
Spirit Airlines, which is in its second Chapter 11 bankruptcy, is selling the gates to raise cash and streamline its operations. The proceeds will be used to prepay debtor‑in‑possession loans rather than to provide immediate liquidity. The sale is Spirit’s first asset transfer to another airline since entering bankruptcy, reflecting the company’s broader strategy of exiting unprofitable routes and reducing its fleet size.
American’s CEO Robert Isom said the company is committed to making Chicago its third‑largest hub. The additional gates will support the airline’s plan to add premium‑seat capacity and expand its network restoration program, which has already generated record revenue growth in 2023 and 2024. The acquisition also signals confidence in the long‑term demand for air travel in the Midwest.
Financially, American reported record revenue of $54.2 billion and a net income of $846 million in 2024, while Spirit posted a net loss of $1.2 billion in the same year. The $30 million transaction represents a modest outlay relative to American’s capital base but is significant for Spirit, which is focused on debt reduction and operational consolidation.
Management emphasized that the gate purchase will enhance operational flexibility and support the airline’s broader strategy of improving customer experience and operational efficiency. The deal is expected to strengthen American’s competitive position at ORD and provide a platform for future growth in a market where United continues to expand its presence.
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