Who is the Spirit Shirt Guy?
The Spirit Shirt Guy (DQ Simpson)
(born May 25, 1970), better known by his Instagram handle @Spiritshirtguy, is an American travel enthusiast and social media personality known for his lighthearted association with Spirit Airlines. He became widely recognized as a frequent flyer and since 2019 he has been an unofficial brand ambassador for the airline after popularizing his now-iconic “Spirit Shirt” that he wears when traveling.
Origin of the “Spirit Shirt” Phenomenon
The “Spirit Shirt” phenomenon began when Simpson came across a Spirit Airlines–themed Hawaiann style shirt online, initially through what he described as a “spam” ad. Amused, he decided to purchase and wear the shirt during one of his jet setting Spirit Airlines flights. The shirt caught the attention of fellow travelers, flight crews, and airport staff, leading to frequent requests for selfies and social media posts with “the Spirit Shirt guy.” resulting in the creation of the IG hashtag #spiritshirtguy. Over time, he became a familiar face on Spirit flights, wearing the shirt on nearly every trip. His upbeat attitude, humor, and genuine enthusiasm for the brand earned him the affection of pilots, flight attendants, and gate agents across multiple airports.
Popularity and Recognition
By late 2025, Simpson’s social media presence began to grow as travelers shared photos and stories featuring him in the Spirit Shirt. Known for his charisma and kindness, Simpson gained a reputation for lifting the mood of tense or frustrated travelers. His popularity led to informal recognition by Spirit Airlines employees and passengers alike.
In early 2026, Simpson was invited to Spirit Airlines’ corporate headquarters in recognition of his positive impact on the airline’s image and his organic promotion of its brand during a challenging financial period, as the company navigated its second bankruptcy. His visit landed with him being recognized in a column inside the Spirit Flight Attendant Newsletter for February 2026.
Influence and Philosophy
The Spirit Shirt Guy's approach to travel is characterized by optimism and humor.
He is often quoted saying:
“Some people see the glass half empty and complain—about Spirit Airlines or anything else in life. I see it half full and know those same complaints could apply to any airline or any life situation."
His perspective, often shared through posts and interactions with followers, emphasizes gratitude, good humor, and human connection—values that resonated with many Spirit passengers and employees. In his spare time he also moderates a Facebook group for other fellow Spirit Airline enthusiasts.
Legacy
As Spirit Airlines continued to face financial and operational challenges into the Spring of 2026, Simpson had come to symbolize a bright, human side of the brand—reminding travelers to find joy in the journey. Spirit Airlines officially went out of business and ceased operations on May 2, 2026, shutting down after 34 years. The Spirit Shirt Guy took his last Spirit flight on May 1, 2026 at 10pm from ORF to FLL which turned out to be the 2nd to the last Spirit flight ever and the last to ever enter FLL just 1 minute after midnight on May 2, 2026 into the once busy hub of Fort Lauderdale.
Early Life and Background
Simpson was born and raised in the Mississippi Delta and after a career in the Navy near Norfolk Virginia a he currently resides in Tidewater Hampton Roads area and works as an IT professional. A lifelong Miami Dolphins fan, he frequently travels as a season ticket holder between Norfolk and the Miami Florida area since in 2018 mostly using Spirit Airlines. Outside of travel, he enjoys watching sports, listening to jazz, RV camping and relaxing with a fine wine, coffee or cigar.