JetBlue launches first London flight despite prolonged pandemic

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JetBlue Airways Corp launches transatlantic flight between New York and London on Wednesday, gaining market share at low fares and recovering routes, which are usually one of the busiest and most profitable international routes in the world. I am planning to promote it.

Transatlantic travel remains partially closed, as the United States has not yet allowed most travelers from the UK to the country due to the coronavirus pandemic. Anyone entering the country, including US citizens, must be negative on the COVID-19 test.

The UK was open only to US travelers who were fully vaccinated in early August.

However, New York-based JetBlue pushed for daily service from John F. Kennedy (JFK) Airport to Heathrow, relying on the new A321neo long-haul Airbus A321LR jet to support its profits. ..

JetBlue Mint Class fares with 24 Liferat Private Suites start at $ 1,979 and £ 999, significantly lower than traditional prices by rivals, and round-trip economy tickets for U.S. travelers start at $ 599. ..

JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes spoke at JFK before his first departure, saying the launch was already causing price competition and fares between New York and London had fallen since the flight was launched. Told.

“JetBlue is responsible for that,” he said.

JetBlue event marking the first transatlantic flight between New York and London at JFK International Airport in New York City
JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes and former Chairman Joel Peterson said on August 11, 2021 at JFK International Airport in the Queens district of New York City, New York, that JetBlue was the first Atlantic to connect New York and London. I cut a ceremonial ribbon at an event to commemorate the crossing flight. Moon / Reuters)

British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, UK-based airlines, cannot rely on the large and vibrant domestic market, unlike their US rivals American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines. I am suffering from a pandemic.

JetBlue Airlines, which will add a flight to London’s Gatwick Airport in late September and will connect Boston and London next year, will be more affected by the blockade at the hub airport than other US airlines during the pandemic. I was affected.

Revenues increased as domestic COVID-19 restrictions were relaxed. We hope that London’s services will provide further support and will work better than other low-cost carriers that have failed to conquer the transatlantic in the past.

Sarah Young and Tracy Lucinsky

Reuters

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