Manchester Airport’s long-standing pursuit to bring JetBlue to New Hampshire has finally paid off. The airline announced Wednesday it will launch year-round flights to Orlando and seasonal winter service to Ft. Lauderdale and Ft. Myers, Florida, starting in January. This latest addition to service from New Hampshire’s largest airport marks a significant victory in the airport’s recent streak of success.
Manchester-Boston Airport has been overshadowed by Boston’s Logan Airport for years, making it a challenge to attract major carriers. Despite this, the airport has made significant strides in recent times. A year ago, the arrival of startup Avelo Airlines marked a turning point. This week, Avelo expanded its service to Charlotte, North Carolina, and central Florida.
Additionally, Sun Country Airlines commenced flights to Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minnesota, in February, while Breeze Airways launched service to Charleston, South Carolina, and multiple Florida destinations. These additions, along with the newly announced JetBlue routes, position Manchester as a growing hub for budget-conscious travelers. While JetBlue is a more established airline, its decision to serve Manchester is a major coup for the airport.
The connection between JetBlue’s decision and its failed merger with Spirit Airlines, which previously had a strong presence in Manchester before its abrupt departure earlier this year, remains unclear. While Spirit’s arrival in 2021 marked a significant turning point for the airport after a decade of decline, its exit was softened by the influx of new airlines and routes, including JetBlue’s recent announcement.
JetBlue’s decision was part of a broader strategy involving route adjustments, such as expanded service to Providence, Rhode Island, and Portland, Maine, while cutting three Logan Airport routes. Despite these changes, Southwest Airlines maintains its dominant position at Manchester-Boston, carrying approximately half of the airport’s passengers.
This news will enhance Boston airport transportation service by potentially relieving some congestion at Logan Airport. With JetBlue expanding its presence in New England and offering additional routes from Manchester, travelers from New Hampshire and surrounding areas may opt for this alternative, reducing passenger volume at Logan. This could lead to shorter wait times, less crowded terminals, and improved overall passenger experience at Boston’s primary airport.
