Spirit Airlines collapse sparks fears for future of cheap flights and budget carriers

The uncertain outlook for economical air travel reflects how difficult it has become for low-cost, no-frills airlines to operate - (Getty Images)

Days after Spirit Airlines ceased operations overnight, a lawyer representing the now-defunct budget carrier appeared before a bankruptcy judge, offering an apology to the throngs of price-conscious customers who may now struggle to find affordable flights.

"We apologize most specifically for those Americans who may now be priced entirely out," Spirit lawyer Marshall Huebner stated in court, extending gratitude to passengers who relied on the airline during its 34-year tenure.