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JetBlue's big bet

6 h ago

JetBlue Airways is expanding its presence at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, where it is already the largest carrier, following the collapse of Spirit Airlines on May 2, 2025. Spirit, previously the top airline at the airport, filed for bankruptcy due to debt and operational issues. JetBlue now holds 36% of the market share by capacity, up from 24% a year earlier, and has increased its daily flights from about 68 to 106. Hours after Spirit’s collapse, JetBlue added flights to fill the void, and on June 1, it raised its revenue forecast for the year due to strong demand. JetBlue President Marty St. George expressed confidence in the growth, noting that additional gates are becoming available, though some are still tied up in bankruptcy court. The airline plans to operate around 150 daily flights during peak winter months, matching its largest hub at Boston Logan International Airport. Expansion includes more international destinations from Fort Lauderdale, with a focus on premium travel. JetBlue is reviewing sites for a lounge at the airport, which would be its third after New York’s JFK and Boston. The main competitive threat is Miami International Airport, about 26 miles south, an American Airlines hub that is much larger. American plans a record 100 destinations to the Caribbean, Mexico, and Latin America, with 77 from Miami, including new flights to Maracaibo, Venezuela, and Cap-Haïtien, Haiti. JetBlue recently announced service from Fort Lauderdale to Caracas, Venezuela. St. George noted that some customers will always prefer Miami, but JetBlue aims to increase utility at Fort Lauderdale with more destinations.