JetBlue has added Edinburgh to its growing list of transatlantic destinations, with the first nonstop flight from New York taking off on May 22, 2024.
The daily summer-seasonal service from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to Edinburgh Airport (EDI) will operate through September 30, bringing much-needed competition to a route previously dominated by high-fare legacy carriers.
JetBlue President Marty St. George said the airline has “redefined transatlantic travel” by introducing low fares and great service in markets historically characterized by high prices.
“We look forward to connecting Scotland and the Northeast this summer with our award-winning Mint and core service that will bring this signature JetBlue experience to Edinburgh,” Mr St. George said.
The new route was welcomed by UK and Scottish government officials, who highlighted the importance of direct connectivity between the two countries for tourism, business, and cultural exchange.
“This new direct JetBlue route from Edinburgh to New York City will really help strengthen links between our two great countries,” said John Lamont, UK Government Minister for Scotland.
Scottish Connectivity Minister Jim Fairlie said the launch demonstrates JetBlue’s confidence in the Scottish market and will help make travel more seamless, especially if Edinburgh Airport secures a US pre-clearance border facility.
VisitScotland Chief Executive Malcolm Roughead noted that North America is Scotland’s most valuable international visitor market, with almost one million travelers last year surpassing pre-pandemic levels.
“These visitors who often stay longer and spend more, are hugely important to Scotland’s tourism industry and wider economy supporting businesses, jobs and communities and why making it as easy as possible for people to visit here with direct access is key,” Mr Roughead said.
The flights will operate on JetBlue’s Airbus A321neo with Mint aircraft, featuring 16 redesigned Mint Suite seats, 144 core seats and enhanced cabin amenities.
Passengers in the premium Mint cabin will enjoy fully lie-flat private suites, custom seat cushions, reusable amenity kits and restaurant-style dining, while those in the core experience will benefit from the most legroom in coach and fresh meals from NYC-based culinary partner DIG.
All customers will have access to free high-speed Wi-Fi and a personalized inflight entertainment experience through the recently launched Blueprint by JetBlue platform.
To celebrate the new route, JetBlue is offering limited roundtrip fares starting at £399 and $499 in core and £1999 and $2999 in Mint.
The Edinburgh service marks JetBlue’s fifth transatlantic market as the airline continues to expand its presence in Europe and disrupt the traditional model of international travel.
