JetBlue expands Fort Lauderdale operations after Spirit collapse

JetBlue Airways is increasing its presence at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, where it now commands about 36% of capacity, up from roughly 24% a year earlier, according to a Cirium analysis of 2026 data. The airline operates an average of 106 flights per day this year, compared with 68 daily flights last year, and aims to reach roughly 150 flights during peak winter periods.

The expansion follows the May 2 bankruptcy filing of Spirit Airlines, which previously held the largest market share at the airport. JetBlue and other carriers quickly added routes to fill the gap left by Spirit’s exit.

"Lauderdale has been a star for us," JetBlue President Marty St. George said, adding that the airline is "very, very bullish" about customer response to its growth.

JetBlue’s plan includes more international destinations, a domestic first-class cabin, and the possibility of opening a third airline lounge at Fort Lauderdale, joining existing lounges in New York and Boston. The airline is also reviewing gate availability freed up by Spirit’s departure, though some gates remain tied up in bankruptcy proceedings.

While JetBlue focuses on expanding service, it acknowledges competition from nearby Miami International Airport, a larger hub for American Airlines. St. George noted that many travelers prefer Miami and that JetBlue does not intend to convert those customers, but expects its broader destination offering to increase Fort Lauderdale’s appeal.

American Airlines announced a record 100 Caribbean, Mexican, and Latin American routes from the United States, with 77 departing from Miami, underscoring the competitive landscape in South Florida.