United Airlines has announced a new partnership with JetBlue, marking its return to John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) after more than two decades of absence. This move comes as United seeks to address issues related to congestion and air traffic control at its primary New York hub, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR).
Historically, United's operations in New York have been concentrated at Newark, with some flights from LaGuardia. By 2022, United had reduced its presence at JFK to just four daily flights before discontinuing them on October 29, 2022. This decision followed years of lobbying for additional slots at JFK without success.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) responded by stating it was "doing its part" to increase capacity and ensure fair competition among airlines. Despite this assurance, United emphasized the temporary nature of its withdrawal from JFK, expressing a desire for a larger schedule once opportunities arise.