“We will always be grateful for the investment JetBlue made in our community and the tremendous service they offered our passengers. We understand that the aviation industry – now more than ever – is constantly changing and airlines nationwide are making difficult business decisions to stay competitive in light of the pandemic. We expect strong interest in the slots as they become available.”

Background:

JetBlue currently holds 17 of 41 permanent flight slots (there are a total of 41 permanent and 12 supplemental flight slots), which the City understands they will be relinquishing as of October 2020. The past few years have seen a decrease in Jet Blue slots and an increase in other carrier interest. The 17 slots will be made available to other air carriers via the Airport’s prescribed slot allocation process and the existing waiting list. Every time the Airport has opened up additional slots at LGB, there has been strong demand. The City is confident that Long Beach Airport remains in high demand among both air carriers and passengers who value the boutique travel experience it offers.