Aviation Business News

“A journey coming to life”: JetBlue’s first GTF-powered A220 enters service

JetBlue A220

JetBlue’s first Airbus A220-300 aircraft has officially entered scheduled service, powered by Pratt & Whitney GTF engines.

The first revenue flight from Boston Logan International Airport to Tampa International Airport took place yesterday (26 April).

The aircraft was assembled at Airbus’s US production facility in Mobile, Alabama and is scheduled to operate between the Northeast and Florida for the next several weeks.

JetBlue’s second A220 is on track for delivery in the coming days, with the third expected to arrive next month.

“We selected the Airbus A220 nearly three years ago knowing its cost savings, superior performance and customer-friendly design would evolve our fleet for the long-term future,” said JetBlue’s head of treasury and investor relations Ursula Hurley.

JetBlue A220-300

“These factors, which initially led us to select the A220, are now more important than ever as we navigate the new travel environment with a steady hand and a long-term view on recovery. Today’s introduction of our first A220 into scheduled service allows us to continue to execute our low-cost business model and enables JetBlue to continue to offer low fares to more customers.

“The A220 with GTF engines represents the future of our fleet, with unmatched fuel efficiency, low emissions and industry-leading passenger comfort. Pratt & Whitney has been there for us since the very beginning and we look forward to continuing our strong relationship.”

JetBlue ordered 60 A220-300 aircraft in 2018 and later expanded the order to 70 aircraft in 2019. The airline has also ordered 85 GTF-powered A320neo family aircraft, including 13 A321LR and 13 A321XLR aircraft.

“The entry into service of the GTF-powered A220 for JetBlue is a milestone moment,” said Pratt & Whitney’s chief commercial officer and senior vice president Rick Deurloo.

“Pratt & Whitney and JetBlue have collaborated closely since the airline’s first flight in 2000. We are honoured that JetBlue is confident that GTF’s game-changing technology will provide true value for their next-generation fleets. We’re honoured to be a part of this momentous milestone and we look forward to supporting JetBlue’s expansion and their commitment to sustainable aviation.”

Airbus’ SVP, A220 customer satisfaction & services and product policy Rob Dewar commented: “[The] first JetBlue A220 commercial flight marks the culmination of our A220 journey coming to life. Having JetBlue – an ultramodern airline – flying customers onboard the newest and most stylish member of its fleet captures the spirit of our vision when we designed the A220 as a truly innovative single-aisle aircraft.

“The A220 is an industry leader, setting the standard in cabin comfort, operating economics, environmental footprint and digital capability.”

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