Imagine if you suddenly lost one of the stores in a mall where you frequently shop. The remaining stores might feel more comfortable raising their prices because they're the only game in town. This is exactly what's happening with Spirit Airlines' collapse.

The official story is that airlines like United, Delta, and American stand to benefit from Spirit's failure. A YouGov analysis points out this shift could give these larger carriers a stronger hand when it comes to setting prices for air travel.

But underneath the surface, there are worrying signs about what this means for the average consumer trying to plan their next trip or visit family. Think of your household budget: if suddenly you had fewer options at the grocery store and one store decided to raise its prices significantly while others followed suit, how would that affect your ability to afford groceries?

What happens when there's less competition? The result is often higher costs for everyday items, including airfare. My late husband used to say, 'Competition keeps prices in check.' And without Spirit Airlines' competitive pricing, other airlines may feel freer to increase fares.

This isn't just about this year's vacation plans; it's a long-term concern for younger generations who are looking ahead at their financial futures. If airfare continues to rise and remains unaffordable, how will families visit each other or experience different parts of the country?

I stayed up last night thinking about all these possibilities. What if my grandchildren can't afford to fly to visit family? How does this affect them as they grow up?

This is not just an economic story; it's a human one. Please take a moment to consider how changes in the airline industry could impact your own family and future.