JetBlue is getting the jump on other domestic airlines that have announced their plans for flights to Cuba, saying it’ll be the first domestic airline to fly a commercial flight from the U.S. to the island nation, starting next month.
JetBlue’s plan to start nonstop flights from Fort Lauderdale, FL to Santa Clara–Abel SantamarÃa Airport (about three hours east of Havana) on Aug. 31 would make it the first airline to fly to the island nation from the U.S. in more than 50 years.
Regional airline Silver Airways and American Airlines have also released their departure dates for their initial flights to Cuba (Sept. 1 and Sept. 7, respectively), after the U.S. Department of Transportation awarded approval for Cuba travel to six U.S. airlines
JetBlue still needs approval from the Cuban government, the Miami Herald notes, but if all goes according to plan, fares will start at $99 each way, the airline said. That price will include Cuba-required health insurance coverage and taxes, which makes it the lowest Cuba fare announced so far.
“It’s a new day for Cuba travelers and one we have thoughtfully prepared for,” said Marty St. George, executive vice president of commercial and planning at JetBlue. “We are proud to usher in a new era of Cuba travel with affordable fares and great service.”
As part of U.S. regulations, citizens traveling to Cuba have to complete an affidavit affirming that they’re going for one of 12 reasons of approved travel. JetBlue says it’s built that process right into its booking process, so it can be completed in a few clicks.
The airline has also been tentatively awarded four daily flights between the Cuban capital of Havana and Fort Lauderdale, New York, and Orlando, but neither JetBlue nor American — which also has approval for five daily flights to Havana — have announced when they’ll start those flights.
by Mary Beth Quirk via Consumerist