JetBlue Takes off on Cutting Unprofitable Routes

JetBlue Airways (NASDAQ:JBLU) told staff Wednesday that it is axing more unprofitable flights, redeploying aircraft outfitted with its high-value business class and tweaking Europe service, the carrier’s latest moves to return to consistent profitability and cut costs.

It will also stop using planes with Mint business class on Seattle flights in April.

JetBlue said it will cut flights from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Jacksonville, Florida; from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport to Austin, Texas; Houston, Texas; Miami; and Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and from Westchester, N.Y. and Milwaukee. It will also end service to San Jose, California.

JetBlue said ending service between JFK and Miami will make the carrier over-staffed in Miami and that it’s working with crew members on options, like working in other cities it serves.

The carrier will announce some new Europe service next week. But starting in the summer 2025 travel season, it will drop its second JFK-Paris flight and its summer-only service between New York and London’s Gatwick Airport, said Jehn.

The changes were announced after JetBlue said its revenue and bookings have come in better than expected for November and December, sending shares up more than 8% on Wednesday.

JBLU shares gained 13 cents, or 2%, Thursday to $6.69.

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