The low-fare carrier has struggled to find its footing after its planned merger with JetBlue was blocked by a federal judge.

Spirit Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy Monday, just days before the holidays and months after it failed to merge with another airline. While this announcement comes before the busiest travel weekend,

Spirit Airlines says it will continue flying as it files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Monday's announcement follows years of losses and a failed merger attempt for the low-cost carrier.