JetBlue has landed in Gatwick as it looks to expand its transatlantic presence with a new nonstop service between New York and London.
Flights will operate on the carrier’s new Airbus A321 Long Range aircraft between JFK airport and Gatwick four times a-week in October and then daily from November.
The first customer-carrying service landed at around 8am on Thursday (30 September).
In August, the carrier touched down at Heathrow, marking the start of JetBlue’s first-ever transatlantic service.
It is now the only airline flying nonstop between the US and Gatwick and will operate from the airport’s north terminal.
JetBlue also plans to launch a London service from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) in summer 2022.
The new routes bring the airline’s London service in line with its multi-airport approach in New York, Los Angeles, South Florida, and other regions, where it can serve a "wider range of travelers" across large metropolitan areas.
Joanna Geraghty, president and chief operating officer for JetBlue, said the company reportedly saw a 500% increase in UK bookings after the Biden administration eased entry requirements for international travelers.
"It’s clear there is significant pent up demand for travel between our two countries and that our Gatwick launch is well timed to meet the growing number of customers returning to the skies," she added.
"JetBlue’s new service at Gatwick – complemented by our recently launched flights at Heathrow – introduces an all-new choice for London travelers who won’t have to choose between an attractive fare and great service as they reunite with family, friends and colleagues on either side of the Atlantic."
Stewart Wingate, Gatwick chief executive, predicted the new route will be in high demand due to JetBlue’s competitive pricing and "high-quality service".
"I’m delighted and excited to welcome JetBlue to Gatwick," he added. "Travel restrictions between the UK and US start falling away in just days, so fully vaccinated customers can now book this exciting new route with confidence."
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