JetBlue is extending its transatlantic reach by mounting a challenge to Aer Lingus on routes from New York and Boston to Dublin.
The summer seasonal flights will operate until September 30 as the US carrier seeks to reinforce its claim to be as an industry disruptor by bringing low fares and “great service” to the two routes.
JetBlue entered the transatlantic market with flights to London in 2021 and has expanded to include Paris, Amsterdam and Dublin.
Seasonal flights to Edinburgh and additional frequencies to Paris start later this spring.
The airline’s Airbus A321neo aircraft deployed on the North Atlantic routes feature 16 redesigned fully lie-flat private Mint Suite seats and 144 ‘core’ economy seats.
The A321neo with Mint claims to features a 20% increase in fuel efficiency and up to 500 nautical miles in additional range.
Special introductory return fares from Dublin start at €399 to Boston and €499 to New York and €1,999 and €2,499 for Mint class but only if booked direct.
“Customers who book directly through jetblue.com are guaranteed to find our best and lowest fares, and enjoy additional benefits including access to all of JetBlue’s fare options, as well as fare sales and promotions, some of which may not be available through other third parties,” the airline said.
Travellers from the US account for nearly 20% of all overseas tourism to Ireland, and Dublin has been among the most requested European destinations previously not served by JetBlue.
Passengers flying from Dublin can connect to other destinations from New York and Boston across the US, Caribbean and Latin America.
Chief executive Joanna Geraghty said: “JetBlue’s entrance into Dublin is set to introduce a new era of low fares and great service between Ireland and the [US] northeast.
“We look forward to introducing our award-winning Mint and core service to business and leisure customers travelling to and from Dublin just in time for Saint Patrick’s Day and the summer holiday season.”
Dublin airport managing director Gary McLean said: “Demand for transatlantic travel has never been higher, with stronger than ever business links continuing to grow between Ireland and the US. These new services from JetBlue will mean greater choice and value for our passengers.”
Tourism Ireland chief executive Alice Mansergh added: “Direct, convenient, and competitive access is critical to tourism.
“Tourism Ireland is committed to working with airline partners like JetBlue and other key partners to drive demand for these new routes, and, through our multi-faceted campaigns, to communicate to consumers the ease and convenience of traveling from the [US] east coast to Ireland and the great experiences and warm welcome that awaits.”