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JetBlue Cuts Newark and LaGuardia Bases to Grow Fort Lauderdale Hub

The airline says the move will cut operating costs by shifting flying and premium Mint service to Fort Lauderdale following Spirit Airlines' collapse.

Overview

  • On Wednesday JetBlue said it will close its flight‑attendant base at Newark Liberty and technical operations bases at Newark and LaGuardia this fall while offering affected staff the chance to bid or transfer and pledging no layoffs.
  • The airline will end seasonal NewarkLos Angeles and NewarkLas Vegas service as it reallocates aircraft and crews to support a larger Fort Lauderdale schedule.
  • JetBlue confirmed new Mint premium service from Fort Lauderdale to San Diego starting Nov. 19 and additional Mint flights to San Francisco and Los Angeles planned for this winter.
  • Executives cite rising operating fees at LaGuardia and a broader push to trim unprofitable routes as reasons for the shift after two years without a profitable quarter.
  • The change follows Spirit Airlines' May collapse, which opened routes at Fort Lauderdale and has driven rapid growth there, so watch for more seat shifts to FLL and further schedule moves as competitors respond.