Flying on JetBlue Airways during the COVID-19 pandemic.Thomas Pallini/Business Insider
- JetBlue Airways is known for its low fares and high frills like complimentary in-flight entertainment and WiFi.
- Like most, the pandemic has forced the airline to adjust. Unlike its low-cost competitors, JetBlue has opted to block seats while keeping its complementary offerings like entertainment and a snack and beverage service.
- I flew on the airline from New York to Chicago and saw how the airline is surpassing competitors when it comes to safety and service but is struggling with scheduling issues.
JetBlue Airways has always been an anomaly in US aviation: a low-cost yet high-frills airline that's become the thorn in the side of the country's largest carriers.
The New York-based airline has approached low-cost with a passenger-first attitude and free extras such as in-flight entertainment and in-flight WiFi, despite low fares. The pandemic saw JetBlue keep its frills but overhaul its route network, pulling out completely from its long-time West Coast hub in Long Beach, California, and doubling down on the East Coast in cities like Newark, New Jersey.
JetBlue is also blocking seats on its aircraft through the summer, along with Delta, Southwest, and Alaska. Although initially blocking seats only through July 4 weekend, the airline extended its commitment to the practice through October 15, two weeks after the airline stops receiving CARES Act assistance.
But it hasn't been all smooth sailing for JetBlue as employees at smaller airports were told in June that positions were likely to be outsourced, as Business Insider first reported, and reduced demand is greatly impacting flight schedule.
I flew on the airline from New York to Chicago in early August – with a return on Spirit Airlines – to see how well the carrier is living up to its promises.
Here's what it was like.