Spirit Airlines Apologizes, Offers 5,000 Free Miles

As a result of last weeks strike and associated flight cancellations, Spirit Airlines is giving thanks to its customers by giving away 5,000 Free Spirit miles to all members. Simply fill out this form by midnight on June 30th to earn the bonus miles. Note: You must be an existing member of the frequent flyer program to qualify.

Spirit Airlines Strike Is On: Flights Cancelled, Travelers Stranded

On Saturday, Florida-based Spirit Airlines cancelled flights systemwide, leaving thousands of travelers stranded. The reason: A strike called by the airlines' pilots who have long argued their pay lags their competitors, such as JetBlue and Air Tran. On the company website, the airline announced they would offer refunds to all customers who had flights cancelled Saturday, and provide an additional $100 voucher valid for future travel. But this has been little help to some as the cost to repurchase a last minute ticket on a different airline is as much as 2 to 3 times more than the Spirit ticket - leaving some stranded.

No word yet whether flights will operate Sunday.

Spirit normally flies about 150 daily flights throughout the United States - mostly east coast, and throughout the Caribbean and Latin America. The airline briefly operated flights to/from San Francisco in 2006.

Happening Now: Volcanic Ash Shuts Down N. Europe Air Traffic

NY Times: The shutdown, among the most sweeping ever ordered in peacetime, forced the cancellation of thousands of flights and left airplanes stranded on the tarmac at some of the world's busiest airports as the rolling cloud - made of of minute particles of silicate that can severely damage airplane engines- spread over Britain and toward continental Europe. Read more from the New York Times.

British Airways Strike Begins, 1100 Flights Cancelled

Cabin crews of British Airways began a three-day strike today, forcing the airline to cancel 1100 flights worldwide. Talks between the Unite trade union and British Airways broke down Friday, which resulted in the strike. Among the issues being argued is the plan by British Airways for a two-year pay freeze and to cut the number of staff onboard long-haul flights. Another three-day strike is planned March 27th. Each strike is expected to cost the airline millions of dollars in lost revenue and brand damage.

To check the status of any worldwide flight, click here.