JetBlue Abruptly Ends Service to New Caribbean Destination
JetBlue Airways is set to discontinue its service to Bonaire, a Caribbean island, marking the end of one of its newest international routes. The airline will cease flights to Flamingo International Airport (BON) on January 3, 2026. This decision comes as JetBlue continues to refine its network as part of a strategy to improve profitability.
Key Takeaways
- JetBlue will end its New York (JFK) to Bonaire (BON) route on January 3, 2026.
- The airline began service to Bonaire on November 5, 2024.
- The route cut is attributed to local authorities ending a multi-year revenue guarantee early.
Route Adjustment Strategy
JetBlue’s decision to exit the Bonaire market, which it only began serving in November 2024, is part of a broader effort to optimize its route map and focus on profitability. The airline aims to be a primary leisure carrier for New Yorkers and Bostonians under its JetForward strategy. While Bonaire was initially envisioned as a leisure destination, its performance evidently did not meet expectations.
Reason for the Cut
A spokesperson for JetBlue confirmed the route’s discontinuation, stating, "we’re always working to fine-tune our network to best align with customer demand and support our long-term success." The primary driver for this swift exit is the early termination of a multi-year revenue guarantee by local authorities. Airlines often rely on such guarantees or subsidies to operate strategic, potentially less profitable routes. Without this financial support, JetBlue is cutting its losses to avoid flying the route at a loss.
Bonaire’s Air Service Landscape
Despite JetBlue’s departure, Bonaire will continue to be accessible from the New York City area through other carriers. United Airlines offers weekly flights from Newark and Houston, American Airlines provides up to four weekly flights from Miami, and Delta Air Lines operates a weekly service from Atlanta.
Sources
- JetBlue drops one of its newest international destinations, The Points Guy.
