JetBlue is reducing its flight attendant base operations at Newark Liberty International Airport and LaGuardia Airport as the airline shifts resources to its growing hub at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport in Florida.
According to CNBC, JetBlue said the move is part of a broader effort to reduce costs and focus on markets that offer stronger long-term growth opportunities.
Service changes planned at Newark
As part of the shift, JetBlue plans to end service from Newark to Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
The airline’s future plans at LaGuardia remain unclear, particularly as airlines compete for available space following changes involving Spirit Airlines’ operations at the airport.
JetBlue has previously identified Newark and LaGuardia as challenging markets because of their high operating costs. The airline has adjusted routes and staffing in recent years as it works to improve profitability.
JetBlue will continue operating from its major New York-area hubs at John F. Kennedy International Airport and Westchester County Airport.
The airline said no employees will lose their jobs as a result of the changes. Flight attendants affected by the base reductions will have the opportunity to transfer to other locations.
Fort Lauderdale becomes a larger focus
JetBlue is expanding service at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, which the airline has identified as its most profitable hub.
The carrier recently announced new daily transcontinental service from Fort Lauderdale to San Diego beginning Nov. 19. The route will feature JetBlue’s Mint premium cabin product, which includes lie-flat seating on select flights.
The airline also plans to expand Mint service from Fort Lauderdale with up to eight daily flights to Los Angeles and up to three daily flights to San Francisco.
JetBlue is also exploring the possibility of adding a premium airport lounge at Fort Lauderdale as part of its long-term growth strategy.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: JetBlue reduces New York operations as airline shifts focus to Florida hub
Reporting by Alexandra Rivera, New York Connect Team / Rochester Democrat and Chronicle
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
By Alexandra Rivera, New York Connect Team | USA TODAY Network
