New York, NY, October 25, 2023, Business Wire – JetBlue Airways Corporation (Nasdaq: JBLU) today announced entrance to two new transatlantic destinations – Dublin, Ireland and Edinburgh, Scotland – with flights on sale starting today. Daily seasonal service from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) to Dublin Airport (DUB) will begin March 13, 2024, and continue through September 30, 2024. Daily seasonal service from New York’s JFK to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) will begin May 22, 2024, and is scheduled through September 30, 2024. These mark JetBlue’s fourth and fifth transatlantic markets. The award-winning carrier currently offers daily nonstop service to London, Paris and Amsterdam from New York and London and Amsterdam from Boston.
Entry into Dublin and Edinburgh
With these new destinations, JetBlue is once again elevating service across the Atlantic. The airline’s premium Mint experience features fully lie-flat private suites with a sliding door and innovative design elements allowing customers to feel at home in the air. Restaurant-style meals are curated by Delicious Hospitality Group’s (DHG) popular New York City restaurants Charlie Bird, Pasquale Jones and Legacy Records. Core customers enjoy a boutique-style experience with the most legroom in coach as well as fresh meals created by NYC-based restaurant DIG. All customers can stay connected with fast, free and unlimited high-speed Fly-Fi. Plus, they have access to a wide selection of entertainment, including exclusive content from Peacock.
Flights to Dublin and Edinburgh will operate daily on JetBlue’s Airbus A321neo with Mint® aircraft with 16 redesigned Mint Suite® seats, 144 core seats and the sleek and spacious Airspace cabin interior. The A321neo with Mint features a 20 percent increase in fuel efficiency and up to 500 nautical miles in additional range.
Hamburg, Germany, 29 April 2021 – U.S.-based JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq: JBLU) has taken delivery of its first of 13 A321LR aircraft featuring Airbus’ new Airspace interior. These new A321LRs support JetBlue’s plan to open its highly anticipated transatlantic services, starting with direct flights to London later this year. In addition to these 13 new A321LRs, the airline also has on order another 57 Airbus aircraft comprising other A321neo variants – which will also feature Airspace cabins. By bringing Airspace to the Single-Aisle Family, JetBlue’s A321 cabins will be the very first to feature Airbus’ new award-winning cabin design-language and passenger-pleasing cabin features – which are consistent with Airbus’ A330neo and A350 Widebody aircraft.
Airspace brings to the A320 Family the following passenger-pleasing cabin enhancements: unique welcome and customisable hero lighting (which helps reduce jet lag); new slimmer sidewall panels for extra personal space at shoulder level; better views through the windows with their redesigned bezels and completely integrated window shades; the latest full LED lighting technologies; the largest overhead bin in class; and new lavatories with hygienic touchless features and antimicrobial surfaces.
In addition to these Airspace elements, the A320 Family’s wide cabin cross-section also enables JetBlue to offer its passengers true long-haul comfort in all classes, with 24 full-flat adaptive-mattress seats in the airline’s Mint premium-class private suites, while 114 economy passengers will appreciate the widest 18.4inch seats with a contoured seat-back for extra knee space. Most of these economy seats will offer a full 32inch pitch, while four rows will be optimised for “Even More Space” seating — offering around an additional five inches for the most legroom in any transatlantic economy class seat.
JetBlue’s passengers in these A321LRs will also be able to stay connected throughout the flight with the airline’s unlimited, free high-speed Wi-Fi. In addition, they will have access to a curated selection of live TV channels focused on news and sports, and an extensive library of seatback entertainment – allowing for a ‘multiple screen’ experience onboard. Seats will also feature easy-to-reach in-seat power, featuring AC and USB-C ports to keep their hand-held devices fully charged. As well as offering the rich portfolio of entertainment and connectivity options for each passenger, the in-seat equipment on these aircraft will also put the customer in control of their food choices, allowing them to customize their own meal right on their seatback screen.
In 2017 at the APEX Expo in Long Beach, JetBlue was unveiled as the launching customer for Airbus’ Airspace cabin for the A320 Family. Following the announcement, Airbus and JetBlue worked together to bring to reality a new level of passenger experience for JetBlue’s passengers in its A321LRs featuring Airspace for the first time.
The longstanding partnership between Airbus and JetBlue began in 1999 when JetBlue was launched and took delivery of its first A320. Two years later the airline placed an order for 48 Airbus planes. Following years of extraordinary growth, JetBlue now operates a fleet of more than 200 A320 and A321 aircraft and has around another 70 on order — including more of these A321LRs, as well as other A321neo variants – all of which will feature Airspace interiors. In addition, the airline has also placed orders for Airbus’ smallest Single-Aisle Family member, the A220 airliner, the first of which will soon enter service.
The A321LR, a member of the A320neo Family, delivers 30 percent fuel savings and nearly 50 percent reduction in noise footprint compared to previous generations of aircraft. With an increased range of up to 4,000nm (7,400km), the A321LR is the unrivalled long-range route opener, featuring true transatlantic capability and premium wide-body comfort in a single-aisle aircraft cabin. With its new fleet the airlines benefit from the lowest operating costs in the respective size categories, as well as the unique commonality between variants of the Airbus Family.
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (NASDAQ:JBLU) today announced it has formally taken delivery of its first Airbus A321neo (new engine option) aircraft configured with the airline’s reimagined premium Mint® experience and an all-new onboard layout, featuring comfort and connectivity perks that set the airline apart from other U.S.carriers. The aircraft is scheduled to arrive at JetBlue’s home at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) tonight from the Airbus production facility in Hamburg, Germany.
JetBlue’s A321neo with Mint features 16 Mint suites – including two Mint Studios™ – and 144 core seats. It will first operate on select flights between New York-JFK and Los AngelesInternational Airport (LAX) this summer. Today’s delivery – tail N2105J named “NEO Mintality” – brings JetBlue’s total fleet count to 270 aircraft, is the airline’s 16th A321neo and the first of this aircraft type to feature Mint.
Travelers can spot the A321neo with Mint by its unique “Ribbons” tailfin. The design features three blues from the airline’s brand palette and is the first tailfin inspired by so-called “Op Art” – as in optical art – using simple shapes to create the illusion of three dimensions and movement.
All Suites, All the Time
The first major design overhaul of Mint – designed in partnership with Acumen Design Associates – will debut on select flights between New York and Los Angeles this summer.
Click the link below to view the full JetBlue press release!
New service from New York (JFK) to Latin America and the Caribbean begins in May
New domestic service from JFK and Boston (BOS) begins in June
American introduces international flights from New York (JFK) to three cities in Colombia and to Santiago, Chile (SCL); new weekend service to St. Lucia (UVF) and Turks and Caicos (PLS) will operate this summer.
American and JetBlue collectively introduce 33 new domestic and international routes for customers in New York and Boston beginning in June.
Almost 50 codeshare markets are available for purchase on aa.com for travel beginning Feb. 25.
FORT WORTH, Texas — American Airlines Group Inc. (NASDAQ: AAL) and JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) are delivering on their promise to introduce better travel choices on routes to and from New York (JFK, LGA and EWR) and Boston (BOS), as they launch nearly 80 codeshare flights and enhanced schedules on key routes. American is also introducing 18 new routes beginning this summer, including six new routes from JFK to Latin America and the Caribbean. Codeshare flights are available for purchase today for travel starting Feb. 25, and American’s new summer flights from New York and Boston will be available for purchase Feb. 22.
“This is the first step to delivering the best customer proposition with the biggest network in New York and Boston,” said Vasu Raja, American’s Chief Revenue Officer. “In the months ahead, we’ll continue to create a seamless experience that’s easy for our customers, supports our communities and leads to more growth for our team.”
American and JetBlue announcedtheir Northeast Alliance in July, followed by the airlines’ intent to introduce key elements of the alliance after review by the Department of Transportation in January.
“Our alliance with American opens the door for JetBlue to successfully enter into new markets, introducing more choices and our award-winning service and low fares to more customers,” said Scott Laurence, head of revenue and planning, JetBlue. “The alliance is also essential to getting our planes back in the air profitably and crewmembers working again.”
New routes
The Northeast Alliance opens up new growth opportunities for both carriers by finding ways to better utilize existing gates and slots in congested Northeast airports while offering customers a seamless travel experience.
International Growth
On May 6, American will launch three new daily routes from JFK to Colombia – Cali (CLO), Bogota (BOG) and Medellin (MDE) – and will begin flying three times per week to Santiago, Chile (SCL) from JFK on a Boeing 777-200, until flights begin operating daily in November. Sun-seeking customers can also look forward to new Saturday service from JFK to the soothing waves in St. Lucia (UVF) and the beautiful beaches in Turks and Caicos (PLS) beginning on June 5, complementing JetBlue’s existing service..
Domestic Growth
This summer, American will also launch 12 new domestic routes, from New York (JFK and LGA) and Boston (BOS), including the following:
Origin
Destination
Season
BOS
Asheville, North Carolina (AVL)
June 5 – Nov. 6
BOS
Columbus, Ohio (CMH)
Aug. 17, year-round
BOS
Jackson Hole, Wyoming (JAC)
June 5 – Sept. 4
BOS
Traverse City, Michigan (TVC)
June 5 – Sept. 6
BOS
Wilmington, North Carolina (ILM)
June 5 – Aug. 14
JFK
Orange County, California (SNA)
June 2, year-round
LGA
Kansas City, Missouri (MCI)
Sept. 8, year-round
LGA
Key West, Florida (EYW)
June 5 – Sept. 4
LGA
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina (MYR)
June 3 – Sept. 7
LGA
Pensacola, Florida (PNS)
June 3 – Sept. 7
LGA
Rapid City, South Dakota (RAP)
June 5 – Sept. 4
LGA
Savannah, Georgia (SAV)
June 3 – Sept. 7
Also launching this summer is previously announced service from LGA to Glacier National Park in Kalispell, Montana, (FCA) and to TVC. As part of the codeshare with JetBlue, all new routes will be operated by American, but available for booking on aa.com or JetBlue.com.
Enhanced schedules in key markets
Customers will soon benefit from aligned schedules in key markets supported by the reciprocal codeshare. Beginning in April, American and JetBlue will offer more flights than any other carrier when they coordinate convenient schedules on the popular New York (JFK and EWR) to Los Angeles (LAX) route. Customers will have the most choices — 14 daily flights — between the two carriers and will have access to the state-of-the art Airbus A321T aircraft or JetBlue’s A321 aircraft featuring Mint. American and JetBlue will also provide enhanced schedules between the following markets:
Origin
Destination
BOS
Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
BOS
MIA
BOS
Washington, D.C. (DCA)
BOS
West Palm Beach (PBI)
LGA
BOS
LGA
DCA
New York (JFK and EWR)
Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
New York (JFK and EWR)
LAX
New York (JFK and EWR)
MIA
New York (JFK and EWR)
San Francisco (SFO)
New York (JFK and EWR)
West Palm Beach (PBI)
Codeshare flights begin next week
Codeshare on domestic flights are available for purchase today for flights beginning Feb. 25. American’s customers will have access to 49 codeshare routes on JetBlue, while JetBlue customers will have access to more than 25 routes on American. The airlines expect to begin codesharing sales on the new international routes soon.* As with all American-marketed codeshare flights, AAdvantage members will be able to earn miles.
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) today unveiled a reimagined version of its popular Mint experience, which first disrupted the market with a fresh take on premium travel at an “unpremium” price in 2014. JetBlue’s first complete redesign of Mint again sets a new standard – this time on transatlantic flights – featuring 24 private suites with a sliding door for every Mint customer, a custom-designed seat cushion by Tuft & Needle, and countless design touches that help every customer feel at home in the air. As part of the refresh, JetBlue will also introduce its latest innovation, the stunning Mint Studio, which will offer the most space in a premium experience from any U.S. airline (a).
“Mint was an idea to make premium travel across the U.S. less stuffy and more affordable, and its performance has exceeded even our most optimistic expectations of going beyond New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco,” said Joanna Geraghty, president and chief operating officer, JetBlue. “It’s remarkable how Mint’s thoughtful design has resonated with customers as we successfully grew it to more than 30 routes. We put our heart into this redesign of Mint and were inspired by our original vision of offering customers an exceptional experience at a lower fare – which is what JetBlue is all about.”
The first major design overhaul of Mint – designed in partnership with Acumen Design Associates – will launch on JetBlue’s highly anticipated London flights this summer, and a 16-seat layout will debut on a limited number of flights between New York and Los Angeles in 2021.
Introducing the New Mint Experience
We made every seat a suite: Inspired by the popularity of the four private suites in its current Mint configuration, JetBlue’s transatlantic Mint will offer more privacy with 24 individual suites. Every inch of space anticipates customer needs, with features including a tilting 17-inch Thales AVANT seatback screen, wireless charging capabilities, an integrated phone ledge for multitasking, and easy-to-reach in-seat power, as well as laptop, shoe and handbag stowage.
JetBlue is the first carrier to outfit its aircraft with Thompson Aero Seating’s VantageSOLO seat, the company’s revolutionary single aisle seating solution with a herringbone configuration developed and designed specifically for narrow-body aircraft and further customized for JetBlue.
Mint Studio is the pinnacle of space and privacy: The all-new Mint Studio – conceptualized by Acumen and developed in partnership with AIM Altitude – is JetBlue’s latest game-changing innovation, offering the most space in a premium experience from any U.S. airline. Each aircraft will have two Mint Studios in the first row, providing ample room for working or relaxing, and featuring a 22-inch tilting Thales AVANT seatback screen, an extra side table for added productivity, and a guest seat that can accommodate an additional Mint customer during flight at cruising altitude. When reclined, customers can kick back and relax on the largest lie-flat bed of any U.S. carrier (b).
Our proprietary seat design is truly a bed in the sky: JetBlue tapped Tuft & Needle, the innovative mattress company that pioneered the bed-in-a-box trend, to shape the entire Mint sleep experience onboard. Engineered for comfort, every Mint seat is layered with Tuft & Needle’s proprietary T&N Adaptive® foam and a breathable cover to create a cool and comfortable sleep experience unlike anything in the sky. The seat complements additional sleep amenities developed in partnership with the brand, including a convertible blanket with a built-in foot pocket, a memory foam lined pillow with a pillowcase, and a snooze kit with a matching eye mask and earplugs.
Bringing the JetBlue Touch to Transatlantic Travel
JetBlue’s latest version of Mint will feature a thoughtful, residential-inspired design and custom-for-JetBlue touches throughout the cabin interior.
Residential textures, such as flannel-covered privacy dividers, concrete lampshades, woodgrain table patterns and soft, vegan leather-covered seats and headrests, make customers feel at home in the air.
Custom-created suite gradient panels bring light into the cabin, while patterned door shrouds with the signature Mint leaf make a bold brand statement in a functional way.
First-of-its-kind mood lighting enhances the inflight experience, and a welcoming blue floor arc helps direct the customer boarding flow.
Transatlantic Mint product features and design elements, combined with the award-winning service from hospitality-trained Mint inflight crewmembers, will offer an elevated flying experience for a fraction of what other airlines charge for premium seats.
– Adding Los Angeles, Las Vegas, San Francisco and Cancún, Mexico to Schedule
– JetBlue Planning to be the Largest Carrier in Connecticut by 2021
JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) today announced it is expanding service in Hartford, Conn., with four new nonstop routes between Bradley International Airport (BDL) and Los Angeles (LAX), Las Vegas (LAS), San Francisco (SFO) and Cancún, Mexico (CUN)*. These routes are part of JetBlue’s strategy to add routes with high potential for leisure demand, and will set the airline up to be the largest carrier in Connecticut by 2021.
Last week, Connecticut simplified its travel advisory enabling all travelers visiting or returning to the state to provide a negative COVID-19 test result obtained within 72 hours prior to or upon arrival to avoid the state’s 14-day quarantine.
“We are excited to roll out these new routes connecting Hartford to some of our largest leisure destinations, bringing more low fares and great service to Connecticut residents,” said Scott Laurence, head of revenue and planning, JetBlue. “We are proud to play our part in support of Gov. Lamont’s economic recovery plan. We see great long-term potential for our business in Connecticut, as it becomes an increasingly attractive place to live and work. Additionally, the simplified travel advisory gives clarity to everyone who needs or wants to travel through Bradley International Airport.”
“One of Connecticut’s best competitive assets is its international airport in such close proximity to so many of our communities and employers,” said Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont. “This strengthening of the partnership with JetBlue shows once again how important Bradley International Airport is to our present and our future. More routes, and a strong international airport are key to Connecticut’s success.”
“We are thrilled that JetBlue has taken the step to strengthen their presence and route network at Bradley Airport with this impressive launch of four new cities,” said Kevin Dillon, executive director, Connecticut Airport Authority. “JetBlue is an important partner for us, and we are very pleased to see that the airline recognizes the potential of the Bradley Airport market. We are confident that our strengthened partnership will provide major benefits for Connecticut travelers, JetBlue, and Bradley Airport.”
JetBlue has built a sizeable presence in Hartford with up to 12 flights per day pre-pandemic and has been instrumental in adding new routes and lowering fares for state residents. When the routes launch in the coming months, JetBlue will have the most nonstop destinations from Bradley International Airport of any carrier.
Service between Bradley International Airport (BDL) and:
Cancún, Mexico (CUN)*Launching November 19, 2020
Los Angeles (LAX)Launching December 18, 2020
Las Vegas (LAS)Launching December 18, 2020
San Francisco (SFO)Launching December 18, 2020
The announcement for new Connecticut routes comes shortly after the airline revealed a lineup of two dozen all-new nonstop destinations, plus expanded Mint service in Newark and Los Angeles. Each route plays to JetBlue’s strengths in the airline’s focus cities, in Florida, Latin America and the Caribbean or on cross-country – or transcontinental – flying. Every market has been identified as one in which JetBlue anticipates increasing demand for leisure travel.
In anticipation of these recent network additions, JetBlue is readying some aircraft that have been temporarily parked. The airline is dedicated to remaining flexible, continuing to assess the airline’s network and allowing market demand to determine how long a particular route continues to operate.
JetBlue Airways Corp. (NASDAQ: JBLU) and American Airlines Group Inc. (NASDAQ: AAL) announced a strategic partnership that will create seamless connectivity for travelers in the Northeast and more choice for customers across their complementary domestic and international networks. In addition, the relationship will accelerate each airline’s recovery as the travel industry adapts to new trends as a result of the pandemic.
The partnership includes an alliance agreement that proposes codeshare and loyalty benefits that will enhance each carrier’s offerings in New York and Boston, providing strategic growth and driving value for customers and crewmembers of both airlines. (Graphic: Business Wire)
The partnership includes an alliance agreement that proposes codeshare and loyalty benefits that will enhance each carrier’s offerings in New York and Boston, providing strategic growth and driving value for customers and crewmembers of both airlines. Customers will experience a number of benefits from the new partnership, including:
New and expanded routes: The partnership enables new strategic growth opportunities for both airlines. As a result, American will launch international service from New York (JFK) to Tel Aviv (TLV) and to Athens (ATH) and JFK to Rio De Janeiro (GIG) will return as a daily seasonal route in winter 2021, in addition to continuing to serve popular long-haul destinations like London (LHR) and Madrid (MAD). JetBlue will also accelerate its growth in key cities, bringing its award-winning service to more customers. JetBlue will grow in greater New York City, adding flights at LaGuardia (LGA) and Newark (EWR), while also increasing its presence at JFK for seamless connections to American’s expanded international network. JetBlue plans to enhance service to strategic markets on the East Coast, West Coast, and in the Southeast, building on JetBlue’s recently announced service between EWR and nine markets, including Mint® service to Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO).
More choice and loyalty benefits: Through their integrated networks,JetBlue and American will operate reciprocal codeshare flights, giving customers new options with improved schedules, competitive fares and nonstop access to more domestic and international destinations. JetBlue will gain connectivity to more U.S.destinations, a broad global network and an improved frequent flyer proposition, while American will complement JetBlue’s improved and expanded service with new international routes. JetBlue and American loyalty members will also enjoy new benefits while the carriers are exploring additional premium experiences for customers.
Seamless experience: Customers will enjoy a seamless experience across both airlines, including the ability to book a single itinerary on either website, convenient connections and an improved on-the-ground experience — resulting in a compelling proposition for both leisure and corporate customers. Additionally, customers seeking more comfort in transcontinental service will have access to both JetBlue’s Mint and American’s three-class Transcon service.
“Pairing JetBlue’s domestic network with American’s international route map creates a new competitive choice in the Northeast, where customers are longing for an alternative to the dominant network carriers,” said Joanna Geraghty, president and chief operating officer, JetBlue. “This partnership with American is the next step in our plan to accelerate our coronavirus recovery, get our crewmembers and our aircraft flying again, and fuel JetBlue’s growth into the future.”
“This is an incredible opportunity for both of our airlines,” said American Airlines President Robert Isom. “American has a strong history in the Northeast, and we’re proud to partner with JetBlue as the latest chapter in that long history. Together, we can offer customers an industry-leading product in New York and Boston with more flights and more seats to more cities.”
New routes from the Northeast
The partnership between American and JetBlue enables sustainable international growth for customers in the Northeast from JFK, which will continue to complement the robust international service from Philadelphia (PHL), for even more options.
Upon the implementation of the alliance agreement, American intends to launch service between JFK and TLV and will introduce new seasonal service between JFK and ATH next summer, to meet the strong local demand. The new nonstop service to TLV and ATH from JFK will be the first long-haul international flights that American has launched from New York in more than four years. American will also operate daily seasonal service to GIG beginning in winter 2021 during the peak summer travel period in Rio de Janeiro. And, once the coronavirus pandemic has ended, the new partnership is certain to facilitate American adding new long-haul markets in Europe, Africa, India and South America
As New York’s Hometown Airline®, JetBlue plans to increase flying out of New York’s three major airports, bringing its award-winning experience to more customers. Its growth at JFK will be aimed at offering even more connection opportunities to American’s growing international network of destinations. From both New York and Boston, JetBlue plans to enhance service to strategic markets, including those on the East Coast, West Coast, and in the Southeast. This will further build on JetBlue’s recently announced growth between EWR and nine markets, including Mint service to LAX and SFO.
More choice and loyalty benefits: Codeshare creates more options for customers
JetBlue and American will begin a new codeshare relationship, giving customers seamless access to more destinations, including international service. The codeshare will introduce JetBlue customers to more than 60 new routes operated by American and will introduce American’s customers to more than 130 new routes operated by JetBlue. Codesharing allows customers to book a single itinerary combining flights from both airlines, which will result in a one-stop check-in experience and seamless flight connections from origin to destination.
“JetBlue customers will have more routes and destinations to choose from through American Airlines’ extensive global network,” said Scott Laurence, head of revenue and planning, JetBlue. “Together we will offer customers better options than either of us could alone. This partnership enables JetBlue to bring our low fares and great service to even more customers by expanding our presence in our hometown, growing relevance in Boston, and supporting our successful Mint franchise.”
“Leisure travel is important to our customers, and JetBlue’s network paired with their award-winning service, are the perfect fit,” said Vasu Raja, Chief Revenue Officer at American Airlines. “Both airlines’ customers value access to more destinations, whether it’s a JetBlue customer who wants more direct access to South America from New York, or an American customer who wants more robust service to Florida. Together, we can give our customers the best of both worlds.”
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) today proudly announced it has been named the number one domestic airline in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2019. Each year, the readers of Travel + Leisure, the largest travel brand in the United States, vote on their favorite airlines, destinations, hotels, and more. Now approaching 20 years of low-fare flying, JetBlue continues to put the customer at the center of the travel experience in ways no airline can match.
“Whether it’s new planes on new routes, our customer comfort and inflight connectivity, or our airport amenities and caring crewmembers, JetBlue strives to lead the industry in every aspect of air travel,” said Joanna Geraghty, JetBlue’s president and chief operating officer. “Honors like this from Travel + Leisure show that the dedication of our 22,000+ crewmembers is truly making a difference in the experiences of our customers each day and we couldn’t be prouder.”
This recognition comes as JetBlue recently took delivery of its first Airbus A321neo aircraft and announced future orders for the A321LR, A321XLR and A220-300 aircraft. Together the aircraft will usher in the next chapter of the JetBlue story with unmatched fuel savings, a best-in-class customer experience from award-winning crewmembers, and the promise to broaden the customer-focused airline’s reach within the Americas and into Europe in the years ahead.
At the same time, JetBlue continues to make significant investments in its current fleet and customer experience through the restyling of its A320 aircraft. JetBlue’s newest Airbus A320 cabin experience officially took flight this spring and introduces a new era of comfort and connectivity to travelers, bringing to the skies the widest seats available for this aircraft and the most legroom in coach of any U.S. airline (a). The refreshed experience also offers an unparalleled inflight entertainment (IFE) experience with 100+ channels of DIRECTV® and hundreds of free movies and shows, expanded coverage of free Fly-Fi® broadband connectivity almost everywhere JetBlue flies (b) and much more.
Additionally, JetBlue continues to expand its award-winning premium Mint experience on cross-country routes and in the Caribbean and Latin America. Currently, the airline operates more than 80 daily Mint flights in 15 JetBlue cities. On most of these routes, JetBlue is the only airline to offer regularly scheduled flights with a lie flat seat, which complements other Mint amenities including tapas-style dining, Hayward and Hopper amenity kits, dessert from local artisanal ice cream makers and award-winning service from hospitality-trained crewmembers.
“For 24 years, our readers have been voting in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards,” said Jacqui Gifford, Editor in Chief, Travel + Leisure. “This annual franchise is a global collection of the top hotels, islands, cities, cruise lines, airlines, and more. Brands and properties from all over the world—from Peru to Japan, India to Italy, and right here at home in the United States—are recognized by our audience because they deliver on exceptional experiences, rooted in a sense of place. I congratulate all of this year’s winners, who have worked so hard to be among the world’s best.”
JetBlue’s honor from Travel + Leisure comes on the heels of JetBlue being named Highest in Customer Satisfaction Among Low Cost Carriers in the J.D. Power 2019 North America Airline Satisfaction Study. The airline has also recently picked up awards for its TrueBlue loyalty program, the JetBlue mobile app and was awarded for “Best Regional Business Class” and Overall “Passenger Comfort” in North America by TripAdvisor.
New York-JFK and Boston Service Begins at Bush Intercontinental October 27, 2019
Airline to Introduce Nonstop Service Between New York-JFK and San José, Costa Rica
JetBlue (JBLU) today announced that the airline’s operations in Houston will relocate from William P. Hobby Airport (HOU) to George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) later this year. The final day of flying at Hobby Airport will be October 26, 2019 and the first day of flying at Bush Intercontinental will be October 27, 2019. JetBlue plans to operate from Bush Intercontinental’s Terminal A.
Recognizing the needs of today’s tech-savvy travelers, Bush Intercontinental is committed to providing customer-focused cutting-edge technology, like interactive visitor kiosks and fast, free Wi-Fi and plenty of outlets and charging stations through the terminal. Bush Intercontinental also features a variety of local food favorites like The Breakfast Club, Cadillac Mexican Kitchen & Tequila Bar and The Hubcap Grill, all found in Terminal A.
JetBlue regularly evaluates network performance, demand and customer feedback to strengthen its focus city strategy. The move to Bush Intercontinental is aimed at strengthening JetBlue’s relevance in New York and Boston, while also growing the carrier’s customer base in Houston where travelers love the airline’s award-winning service and competitive fares to and from the Northeast.
Customers currently booked on JetBlue flights to and from Hobby Airport on or after October 27, 2019 will be automatically rebooked on flights to and from Bush Intercontinental. JetBlue Customer Support will contact travelers in the coming days to confirm the update to their reservations. Customers who wish to do so may also request a full refund on flights scheduled after the transition date.
Connecting Costa Rica with New York-JFK
JetBlue today also announced it will introduce new nonstop service between New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK) and San José, Costa Rica’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) beginning November 1, 2019 (a). Service will operate three times weekly on Fridays, Sundays and Tuesdays.
San José – Costa Rica’s capital and largest city – is home to more than 300,000 people and boasts museums, parks, cultural spots, as well as a variety of bars and restaurants. It also serves as a central jumping off point for travelers interested in hiking, visiting rain forests or exploring national parks.
New York-JFK service in San José will complement JetBlue’s daily service between Costa Rica’s capital and the airlines’ focus cities in Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. Additionally, JetBlue also offers nonstop service, including seasonal Mint flights, to Liberia, Costa Rica from the airline’s home at New York-JFK. JetBlue first began serving Costa Rica with San José service more than a decade ago in March 2009.
JetBlue will operate both Houston and San José flights using its Airbus A320 aircraft offering the airline’s award-winning service featuring the most legroom in coach (a); free Fly-Fi, the fastest broadband internet in the sky (b); complimentary and unlimited name-brand snacks and soft drinks; free, live DIRECTV® programming and 100+ channels of SiriusXM® radio at every seat.
About JetBlue Airways
JetBlue is New York’s Hometown Airline®, and a leading carrier in Boston, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Los Angeles (Long Beach), Orlando, and San Juan. JetBlue carries more than 42 million customers a year to 100+ cities in the U.S., Caribbean, and Latin America with an average of more than 1,000 daily flights. For more information, please visit jetblue.com.
JetBlue Converts 13 Aircraft in Existing Order Book to the Xtra Long Range Version of Airbus’ Newest, Fuel-Efficient Aircraft to Expand Transatlantic Options
JetBlue Also Exercises Its Option to Take 10 Additional A200-300 Aircraft – Featuring Powerful Combination of Economics and Range – Increasing Total on Order to 70
NEW YORK–(BUSINESS WIRE)– JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) today announced it is converting 13 aircraft in its existing Airbus A321neo order book to the XLR version for delivery scheduled to begin in 2023. The aircraft will support JetBlue’s focus city strategy by allowing the airline to implement further expansion to additional European destinations from Boston and New York, while also providing added fuel efficiency.
“The incredible extended range of the A321XLR allows us to evaluate even more overseas destinations as we think about JetBlue’s expansion into European markets plagued by high premium fares and subpar service,” said Robin Hayes, chief executive officer, JetBlue.
The airline also announced it is exercising its option to add 10 additional A220-300 aircraft to its order with delivery beginning in 2025. Together both aircraft ensure the best financial performance of JetBlue’s fleet, while providing maximum flexibility to execute its network strategy. These aircraft are both game changers in regards to enhancing the airline’s industry-leading customer experience.
“Increasing our firm order for A220 aircraft gives us a valuable tool to support our network strategy in the Americas and continue to build our focus cities with an airplane that offers incredible economics and range,” said Hayes. “Both the XLR and the A220 ensure we remain committed to meeting financial targets with disciplined growth.”
“JetBlue has been pioneering new travel options for passengers for 20 years,” said Christian Scherer, chief commercial officer, Airbus. “By building their future fleet with more A220s and the addition of the A321XLR – the most capable, longest-range aircraft in their categories – JetBlue is signaling a continued commitment to creating new opportunities for people to travel in both comfort and efficiency.”
The A321XLR & Overseas Options
Introduced just this week at the Paris Air Show, the A321XLR is the latest evolution of the A321neo aircraft family and features an extended range of 4,700 nautical miles – some 600 nautical miles more than the A321LR aircraft. The increased flying distance is made possible with an additional rear center tank for more fuel volume. And with 30% lower fuel burn per seat than previous-generation aircraft, JetBlue can maximize the benefits of single-aisle aircraft economics.
“This next generation, low-cost single-aisle platform ensures we are building a fleet that meets and exceeds our financial targets for the next decade and beyond,” said Steve Priest, executive vice president and chief financial officer, JetBlue. “These investments allow us to advance our broader expansion plans but with disciplined, thoughtful growth.”
JetBlue remains focused on delivering earnings per share between $2.50 and $3.00 by 2020. This update to the fleet plan is part of JetBlue’s vision to continue growing its earnings per share beyond 2020.
The A321XLR also allows JetBlue to evaluate new transatlantic options as the airline explores additional destinations it may serve in Europe. The XLR opens up possibilities for service between the northeast U.S. and destinations in south, central and northern Europe.
As announced in April 2019, JetBlue intends to launch service to London from New York-JFK and Boston in 2021 using the A321LR (long range) aircraft. Today’s XLR news builds on the previously announced conversion of 13 A321neos to the A321LR aircraft.
Like London, JetBlue will explore European cities that suffer from high fares or mediocre service and those which are effectively controlled by legacy carriers and their massive joint ventures. JetBlue is developing a reimagined transatlantic version of its premium Mint product, as well as an enhanced transatlantic Core experience for the A321XLR. With both the A321LR, and now the A321XLR, the customer-favorite airline intends lower fares while raising the bar on what travelers can expect from a low-cost carrier when flying across the Atlantic.
The A220 & Continued Growth in the Americas
By exercising its option to add 10 additional A220-300 aircraft to its existing order, JetBlue will grow its total number of A220s on order to 70.
The A220’s spacious and comfortable cabin makes it the perfect fit for JetBlue, which has consistently led U.S. airlines in the onboard experience. The A220’s cabin design offers customers the best inflight experience with wider seats, spacious overhead bins and extra-large windows that offer a great view from the sky and on the ground.
The aircraft’s range and seating capacity will add flexibility to JetBlue’s network strategy as it targets growth in its focus cities, including options to schedule it for transcontinental flying. The aircraft also opens the door to new markets and routes that would have been unprofitable with JetBlue’s existing fleet.
The initial order for 60 A220 aircraft – announced in July 2018 – will be phased in as replacements for JetBlue’s existing fleet of 60 Embraer E190 aircraft.
About JetBlue Airways
JetBlue is New York’s Hometown Airline®, and a leading carrier in Boston, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Los Angeles (Long Beach), Orlando, and San Juan. JetBlue carries more than 42 million customers a year to 100+ cities in the U.S., Caribbean, and Latin America with an average of more than 1,000 daily flights. For more information, please visit jetblue.com.
