Spirit’s Creditors Could Give Airline More Time, Hassett Says

A top Trump administration official said private lenders to Spirit Airlines can help the beleaguered airline keep operating while negotiations on a potential rescue package from the US government proceed.

“Those are ongoing negotiations with the Commerce Department and the creditors,” National Economic Council Director Kevin Hassett told reporters at the White House on Thursday, when asked about a rescue deal for Spirit Aviation Holdings Inc.

Pressed on how long the airline can continue to operate, Hassett responded: “It depends. The creditors can give them more time by helping them out, if they want to hold this up.”

The ...