JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU) has announced today that it will retain its headquarters in New York while also moving forward with plans to expand its iconic John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) terminal.
JetBlue maintaining its headquarters in New York
As part of its Northeast Alliance with American Airlines, the airline has already announced intentions to significantly boost flying at affordable prices and bring more employment to JFK, Newark, and LaGuardia. JetBlue’s decision comes as the aviation sector recovers from the pandemic’s financial impact, which has also impacted how people will work in the future in office spaces.
CEO Robin Hayes said, “Some people call New York the Big Apple. Others call it the center of the universe. At JetBlue, we call it home. Our unique brand and culture have been embraced by millions of New Yorkers for more than two decades, and we remain committed to helping bring this iconic city back from one of the greatest crises it has ever faced. A lot of out-of-town airlines like to talk big about New York City, but as the only airline based right here, no one knows like we do why this city has always been.”
New York emerging from the pandemic
Hayes thanked supporters and partners for the collaboration, especially Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who has been the company’s supporter in the last 21 years. Schumer said that the announcement from the airliner is confirmation that New York is emerging from the pandemic. He added that there would be thousands of jobs linked to JetBlue’s expanding presence at JFK.
New York Governor Andrew Cuomo said, “The company’s commitment to keep its headquarters in Long Island City, Queens and invest in a new, modern Terminal 6 at JFK International Airport is a testament to New York’s position as a global leader in business and travel, and the state’s positive outlook for a post-pandemic economic recovery.”
