Google Snaps Up Spirit Airlines' Data for $10 Million AI Boost

Google is acquiring all of Spirit Airlines' data as part of its efforts to improve its AI models. The discount airline halted operations in May and has been selling off its remaining assets through bankruptcy proceedings. Google will pay $10 million for the data, which includes emails, internal communications, spreadsheets, transactions with customers, frequent flyer information, and human resources data on employees.

The data will be stripped of any identifying information, but it is still expected to provide valuable insights for Google's AI development. This acquisition is unusual in the airline industry, as most bankrupt airlines are typically purchased whole by another carrier. Spirit Airlines was forced to halt operations entirely, making its data a separate asset that can be sold off.