The strongest performing connecting markets in the JetBlue route network from Ireland were to popular sunshine and city destinations including Orlando, Palm Beach, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale and Fort Myers, Florida; as well as Phoenix, Arizona; Las Vegas, Nevada; L.A./Long Beach and San Diego, California; and Buffalo, New York.

The partnership is not a traditional interline or code share agreement. It represents an industry first, which enables U.S. and Irish customers to book a single low fare between Ireland and destinations in the U.S. and Puerto Rico exclusively at aerlingus.com. Additionally, JetBlue and Aer Lingus customers enjoy the convenience of a seamless airport transfer facility, which includes baggage transfer.

The overriding success of the partnership, which initially allowed for connections between Dublin and Shannon, Ireland and more than 25 JetBlue destinations via New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), was extended last autumn to allow for connections via Boston Logan Airport, JetBlue's second largest focus city. The relationship has extended access to the Aer Lingus transatlantic product to JetBlue cities across the U.S. Conversely, this development gives Irish travelers greater choice and access to further onward connections in the JetBlue network.

JetBlue's recent move to a brand new state-of-the-art facility at JFK Terminal 5 has further enhanced the customer experience. Customers can now enjoy the convenience and comfort of JetBlue's new user-friendly airport facility.

JetBlue CEO, Dave Barger said, "Over the past year, the JetBlue and Aer Lingus brands have aligned to create a preferred customer experience that is second to none. In addition to award-wining customer service, customers receive more for their money, including free checked bags, free, live, in-flight entertainment and complimentary snacks and drinks. Our partnership, which has already far exceeded our expectations, will continue to build on the success of introducing this valuable stream of customers to our product and the ease of the travel process with our two leading brands."

Commenting on the anniversary Aer Lingus CEO, Dermot Mannion said, "One year on and the success of our pioneering partnership with JetBlue speaks for itself. It is testament to the strength and value offering which underpins our success. Since its inception the partnership has gone from strength to strength and customer response has been tremendous. We will continue to grow and develop new opportunities in partnership with JetBlue thus further strengthen our relationship - offering our customers greater choice and ease of access to more destinations in North America."

JetBlue,
03 April 2009