JetBlue will begin operations at Long Island MacArthur Airport in Ronkonkoma in October, offering nonstop flights to three popular Florida destinations. The addition of JetBlue means that JetBlue will become the fourth airline to operate out of Islip Airport, joining Southwest Airlines, Frontier Airlines and Breeze Airlines.
New routes
Beginning in late October, JetBlue will offer daily flights between Islip and Orlando, as well as four times weekly service between Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach. The expansion comes in response to strong demand from Long Island residents for more air service options, with JetBlue often listed as a top choice.
Airport upgrades
The addition of JetBlue is part of a series of upgrades at MacArthur Airport, which has invested more than $100 million in planning and capital projects since 2016. Notable improvements include a new ground transportation center, pedestrian walkways, and a fire and rescue building. In addition, the proposed $2.8 billion Midway Intersection Project aims to further enhance the airport’s connectivity and infrastructure.
Midway intersection
The Midway Junction project includes building a pedestrian path connecting the new MacArthur Airport to the Long Island Rail Road station in Ronkonkoma. The proposal includes 2.7 million square feet of new construction, including a conference center, a 300-room hotel and health science facilities. However, environmental review is currently on hold, awaiting state infrastructure funding.
Security enhancements
In preparation for the summer travel season, the Transportation Security Administration at MacArthur Airport has introduced new identification technology that uses a camera to scan photo IDs to confirm a traveler’s identity and flight information, streamlining the security process.
Passenger growth
Islip town officials noted that airlines operating out of MacArthur Airport increased domestic flight seats by nearly 23% in April compared with the same period last year. That growth rate is higher than any other commercial airport in New York or New England, indicating a significant increase in passenger traffic.
Economic impact
The addition of JetBlue is expected to increase passenger numbers and economic activity on Long Island. Airport Commissioner Shelley LaRose-Arken highlighted the community’s long-standing desire for JetBlue service and anticipates an increase in passenger numbers as a result of the airline’s addition. Florida remains a top destination for New Yorkers, including those traveling from MacArthur Airport.
Cheap Flights
JetBlue is offering special fares to Florida starting at $49 through June 13, with prices expected to vary based on demand and seasonality. Dave Jehn, JetBlue’s vice president of network planning and airline partnerships, noted that the selected destinations — Orlando, Fort Lauderdale and Palm Beach — are among the most popular destinations for Long Islanders.
Passenger volume
In 2023, MacArthur Airport will handle approximately 1.2 million passengers, indicating a very significant amount of air traffic. Matt Cohen, president and CEO of the Long Island Association, is optimistic about the economic benefits of JetBlue’s arrival, predicting a surge in passenger numbers, which will stimulate the local economy.
Local support
Senator Chuck Schumer, who has long advocated for funding for the Ronkonkoma Airport, praised JetBlue’s expansion and noted that the airport’s success is vital to Long Island’s economy. Economist Martin Cantor echoed that sentiment, acknowledging the airport’s potential to increase travel and economic growth, but noted that Long Islanders are traveling to Florida more than Floridans are traveling to Long Islanders.
Challenges facing airlines
While JetBlue’s expansion into MacArthur Airport is a positive development, the airline faces significant challenges. Last year, JetBlue ranked ninth among the top 10 U.S. airlines for flight cancellations and on-time performance. Due to continued financial losses, the company has also eliminated service to multiple cities, reduced flights from Los Angeles, and ended routes such as Fort Lauderdale to Atlanta.
Financial distress
JetBlue has reported losses of more than $2 billion since it was profitable in its last fiscal year in 2019. The airline’s attempts to form a partnership with American Airlines and acquire Spirit Airlines have been thwarted by a federal lawsuit, with a judge ruling that the proposed $3.8 billion deal violates antitrust laws.
Community Response
News of JetBlue’s new route was warmly received by local travelers. Frequent flyer Thomas Legere said he was happy to be able to fly JetBlue from MacArthur Airport instead of JFK or LaGuardia Airport, which was very convenient. Similarly, Stephanie Pintucci of Lindenhurst, who often flies to Orlando, said she would probably choose JetBlue based on price.
prospect
JetBlue’s opening of service to Long Island’s MacArthur Airport is a significant development for both the company and the local community. Despite the broader challenges facing the company, its new service is expected to enhance travel options, boost the local economy, and meet a strong demand from Long Islanders for more convenient air travel. The community remains optimistic about the positive impact JetBlue’s presence will have on the region.
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