After an airline industry blog published an interview with JetBlue CEO Dave Barger in which Barger implies that the airline may leave the Long Beach Airport, JetBlue has released a statement to the lbpost.com through spokesperson Bryan Baldwin.
“We remain committed to our low fare home in Long Beach for the time being. Its unique convenient features are enjoyed by thousands of JetBlue customers every day and it is home to more than 500 Crewmembers and many more business partners. Yet, there are airport improvements that were promised before we began flying, which would benefit the traveling public, which have been repeatedly opposed by some and thus stalled. That is why we must examine all options in an effort to meet the immediate needs of our customers, crewmembers and shareholders as well as the community in which we have invested so much.”
Barger himself was not available for interview.
In the interview with crankyflier.com, Barger points out many difficulties that the airline has had with the Long Beach Airport and advises that air service should not be taken for granted in the current economic climate.
“It has been a huge frustration for us. They need to make good on their commitment to improve the airport experience. The City of Long Beach couldn’t have a more committed partner than JetBlue, but it’s been difficult,” Barger told crankyflier.com.
“But the best example is that it took us 30 months to build a brand new terminal at JFK but we’re still stuck in temporary trailers in Long Beach.”
More to come.
By Ryan ZumMallen, Managing Editor