Retiring Spirit Airlines Captain Honored by Southwest Airlines After Final Flight Was Cancelled

After Spirit Airlines Captain Jon Jackson’s retirement flight was cancelled when Spirit shut down operations, Jackson received an unexpected tribute. Jackson’s son, Chris, is a first officer with Southwest Airlines, and he coordinated with dispatchers to hold a retirement party for his father upon landing in Baltimore. That included a water cannon salute and welcome from ground crews. Captain Jackson was overwhelmed by the gesture and expressed his gratitude.