Spirit Airlines filed for bankruptcy protection Monday after the company struggled with a long run of quarterly losses, failed mergers and looming debt, but it plans to keep flying. Spirit's troubles deepened after the collapse of its $3.

Spirit Airlines filed for bankruptcy protection on Monday, the first major US airline to do so since 2011. Here’s what will happen with future flights.

Spirit operates as “ultra low cost,” meaning that those who travel with Spirit buy purely their plane ticket without added amenities. Travelers do not get complimentary snacks or drinks and must pay for a carry-on bag. However, this option allows people to fly at an affordable price.