Why is JetBlue planning two dozen new routes this winter in markets that, a year ago, would have been unthinkable? To quote infamous bank robber Willie Sutton, “Because that’s where the money is.” At least, that’s what JetBlue hopes. Head of Revenue and Planning Scott Laurence explains that the moves “advance our revised network strategy, return more aircraft to the skies and double down on our ability to generate more cash sooner.”
JetBlue
United announces new long-haul routes for 2021
Airline route networks must adapt to shifting demand and long-haul operations are no exception. United Airlines is the latest player to make a move on that front, announcing seven routes today with service slated to launch between December and Summer 2021. The carrier will be reopening some destinations, expanding others and inaugurating a couple of markets never before served.
Spirit Airlines avoids pilot furloughs in October
Spirit Airlines will not involuntarily furlough any pilots in October when the CARES Act Payroll Support Program funding expires. The news comes just days after the company and the Air Line Pilots Association representing its pilots indicated that 117 positions were at risk.
Damn the hubs; nonstop flights ahead for United
United Airlines is reinventing its domestic route map for the coming winter season, with plans to add nearly two dozen new domestic routes that bypass the carrier’s hub airports. It is a gamble in many ways, but with all the historical models essentially useless today the company is ready to try something different and see if it can generate a bit of revenue.
JetBlue launches trial for Honeywell’s UV Cabin System (f/k/a GermFalcon)
JetBlue is the first US airline to press the Honeywell Aerospace UV Cabin System into service. The product, formerly known as GermFalcon, entered a trial program at the carrier on Tuesday. The move comes just weeks after Honeywell signed an exclusive deal with Dimer LLC covering production, marketing and sales of the solution.
Slot swappin’ – How New York operations could shift for American Airlines and JetBlue
When the deal was first announced JetBlue and American Airlines chose to keep quiet about potential slot swaps at New York City’s airports. With some time now passed, however, both sides are sharing more. And – pending regulatory approval – it is clear that they have big plans together.
American, JetBlue team for NYC, Boston feed
American Airlines and JetBlue are to launch a “strategic partnership” in Boston and the New York City area, aligning flights and loyalty program benefits to boost their recovery. It reads well in the press release, but how it evoloves in practice is very much up in the air, with few details available from either side.
JetBlue beefs up Los Angeles, abandons Long Beach
JetBlue’s long and convoluted history at Long Beach comes to a close in October. The carrier will move its LA crew and maintenance bases to Los Angeles International Airport and halt service at the smaller, nicer airport.
July’s magic: The Weekly Wrap–3 July 2020
As the calendar rolled over to July the global aviation community saw significant wins. Borders reopened, airlines resumed or increased flight levels. And, perhaps most exciting, lounges are reopening, too. Get details on that and lots more in this edition of The Weekly Wrap
JetBlue hits most targets in voluntary staff reduction plan
Most of JetBlue’s employee groups hit targets for voluntary departures, helping the company to avoid layoffs as the CARES Act Payroll Support Program funding expires at the end of September. In a message to crewmembers today Chief People Officer Mike Elliott detailed the situation among each of the work groups.