Network adjustments are ahead for JetBlue Airways, as it moves beyond a terminated Spirit Airlines merger and its shuttered alliance with American Airlines.
As many challenges begin the year, carriers anticipate high labor and maintenance costs, delivery delays and air traffic control shortages in the rest of 2024.
An event-saturated January followed a year not short on its own challenges, and during recent earnings calls airlines projected which issues might spill over.
Plans include $2.5 billion in aircraft deferments, new revenue initiatives, network refinements, and cuts across its cost base including real estate and staff.
Despite Spirit's reliance on leased aircraft, lessor specific exposure to the financially distressed airline is not large enough to raise any red flags.
A weak or failed Spirit is just as much a threat to price-conscious consumers’ ability to fly and enjoy low fares as a merger with JetBlue Airways would be.
After announcing intent to appeal an antitrust ruling blocking their merger, JetBlue has informed Spirit that the merger may be terminable on and after Jan. 28.
