The New York-based carrier announced they will start flying from New York to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) starting in “late summer 2023,” followed by service in Boston to follow “subject to receipt of government operating authority.”
JetBlue Promises “Customer-Focused, Low-Fare Travel” to Amsterdam
Plans to expand trans-Atlantic travel were temporarily put on hold after Amsterdam Airport Schiphol tried to reduce the number of air traffic movements this year. A Dutch court would go on to rule that the move did not follow Dutch law, giving JetBlue the confidence to move forward with expansion plans.
“This route is long overdue for some competition,” said Robin Hayes, chief executive officer of JetBlue, in a press release. “For too long the U.S. legacy carriers, backed by their joint ventures with other global airlines that enjoy immunity from antitrust laws, have locked customers in with very expensive fares and mediocre service. Just like we’re doing in London and Paris, we will bring fares down and improve the experience for customers flying between the U.S. and Amsterdam.”
Once launched, the flights will be operated using the airline’s Airbus A321LR aircraft, flying from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Amsterdam. Each flight will feature 24 Mint international suites, 24 Even More Space seats, and 90 core economy seats. Mint flyers will be treated to lie-flat seats, closing doors for privacy, and seat cushions from mattress company Tuft & Needle.
As with every JetBlue flight, flyers will be treated to unlimited Wi-Fi on board from Viasat, a selection of live TV, and other curated seatback entertainment options. Although the airline has not committed to a hard launch date, JetBlue says it will complement their service launch to Paris in June 2023.
Launch Comes as JetBlue Faces Regulatory Challenges
Even though the two international launches marks a big moment for JetBlue, the carrier is still facing regulatory issues at home. In addition to a challenge to their “Northeast Alliance” with American Airlines, the Justice Department is also suing JetBlue to block their planned merger with low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines.
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Source: frugal travel guy