Phê Vé
May 5, 2026 • 3 min read
Hunter Peterson proposes a community-owned airline by acquiring Spirit Airlines, opening the door for the public to reform the aviation industry.
A Revolution in Aviation
When booking flights for 2026, many of us feel the pressure. For instance, I always choose to fly with the airline linked to my credit card, as it’s the best way to ease the stress of takeoff. Free services like checked baggage or lounge access are truly valuable, but what I really desire is a Premium Economy seat, allowing me to disembark within 30 minutes and have space for my carry-on luggage.
Without a membership card, you’ll notice that ticket prices have significantly risen compared to a few years ago. This price disparity, along with deciding whether to pay an extra $80 for a reserved seat, contributes to the feeling that flying has become a cautious acceptance for the middle class, while the working class struggles to fly regularly.
Hunter Peterson's Groundbreaking Idea
Social media influencer and voice actor Hunter Peterson stirred excitement with his suggestion that ordinary people should band together to purchase Spirit Airlines and self-manage the airline. Peterson argues that if about 20% of the 250 million adults in the U.S. contribute $30 to $40 each (the equivalent of a Spirit ticket), there would be enough capital to buy and operate the airline.
Within just 48 hours, Peterson's website garnered nearly 150,000 email sign-ups and around $88 million in non-binding commitments. However, this idea cannot be seen as a straightforward deal due to Spirit Airlines’ debt, which totals billions of dollars. Moreover, history shows that cooperatively-owned airlines often don’t last long.
Analysis of Peterson's Proposal
Hunter Peterson pointed out that his proposal is not just a business plan but also a referendum. Those who signed up aren’t necessarily interested in acquiring an airline; rather, they want to resist a future where flying becomes a luxury commodity.
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I'm willing to invest $100 to become a shareholder if this plan progresses and becomes a reality. This doesn’t mean I believe a crowd-owned airline could operate more efficiently than United Airlines, but I don’t want the question of who owns America’s transportation infrastructure decided solely by nameless entities managing my savings.
Useful Information for Vietnamese Travelers
If you’re considering flying to the U.S. and are interested in innovative ideas like Peterson’s, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you will need a visa to enter the U.S., with visa costs ranging from 1 million to 2 million VND depending on the type. The wait time for interviews can be from a few weeks to several months, so it’s best to prepare in advance.
Flights from Vietnam to the U.S. typically range from 15 million to 30 million VND, depending on when you book and which airline you choose. The most common departure points are from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) or Hanoi (HAN). If you want to explore your flight options thoroughly, make sure to compare prices and flight times for the best experience.
Conclusion
Hunter Peterson is creating a new wave in how we perceive the aviation industry. Public participation in owning and operating an airline could pave the way for a more accessible flying experience for everyone.
Hopefully, initiatives like this will lead to positive changes in the aviation industry in the future.
Article adapted and edited from: Matador Network
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