Officials, passengers celebrate JetBlue expansion at ATL
JetBlue Flight 519on March 8. Jose Acevedo
By Anika Robertson
Senior Editor/Assistant Public Relations Manager
After 14 years, officials at the world’s busiest and most efficient airport welcomed a JetBlue Airways flight from New York. This arrival marked the one of three new flight routes between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) and New York (JFK), Orlando (MCO) and Ft. Lauderdale (FLL).
ATL Senior Deputy General Manager Michael Smith welcomed the expansion, saying that additional nonstop routes from Atlanta are great for passengers and business.
“New air service generates jobs, stimulates tourism and lays the foundation for new business ventures,” Smith said during the March 8 press event in the International Terminal.
JetBlue executives and travelers ushered in the A320 during the celebration. Flight 519 from JFK received a water cannon salute from Atlanta Fire Rescue as it taxied to the gate.
JetBlue Atlanta Station Manager Michelle Ager said that her team remains committed to offering award-winning customer service and competitive fares.
“Atlanta is a special place for us,” Ager said to the dozens gathered amid JetBlue banners.
JetBlue’s expansion follows the success of inaugural flights to Boston (BOS) last year, opening up markets in South America and the Caribbean.
According to ICF International, JetBlue’s Atlanta-to-Boston service would have a $43 million economic impact on the state of Georgia. It also estimates that these added routes will provide another $43 million in economic activity.
Smith recognized that air service development remains a top priority for ATL.
“The world’s busiest and most efficient airport recognizes that strong air service – both domestic and international – makes a positive and enduring impact on a community,” he said.
“At the same time, this air service expansion will help Hartsfield-Jackson solidify its position as the metro area’s chief economic engine for the creation of jobs and growth of wealth for local residents.”
JetBlue flights from ATL operate five times daily to Boston, twice-daily to New York and Fort Lauderdale, and once daily to Orlando.
