September 16, 2013 – The Savannah Airport Commission is pleased to announce that JetBlue Airways will begin service out of Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport on February 13, 2014. The carrier will offer two flights daily to New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport and is offering special introductory fares as low as $79 one way for travel between February 13 and March 31, available for booking today.
“We are extremely happy to add JetBlue to our carrier base. This low-cost airline gives business and leisure passengers additional options to great destinations. Congratulations to the Commission Staff for their perseverance. Come on Savannah… Let’s Fly Blue!” says Savannah Airport Commission Chairman Sylvester Formey.
Airport Executive Director Greg Kelly says, “ This is a very good day for business and leisure travelers in our region. JetBlue’s presence in this market will increase competition and stimulate new travelers, both of which we’ve been working to achieve for some time. This should help reduce the need to drive to Jacksonville or Charleston due to airfare disparity.”
“JetBlue service to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport will be the catalyst for structurally lower airfares in key markets. The service will be especially helpful in attracting new visitors and spurring tourism development across the region.” says Brad Difiore of Ailevon Air Service Consulting.
Mr. Kelly continued, “In addition to thanking JetBlue for giving us this opportunity, I would like to thank all those who have worked long and hard to get us to this point. Joe Marinelli (Visit Savannah), Trip Tollison (SEDA), Bill Hubbard (Savannah Chamber of Commerce) and Bill Miles (Hilton Head Island Chamber of Commerce). Each of these gentlemen and their organizations joined forces with the airport’s efforts to position us to achieve an air service success. This was a true regional effort that will produce true regional benefit. Additionally, I would like to recognize our Commissioners, Sylvester Formey (Chairman), Steve Green (Vice Chairman), Shirley James, Lois Wooten and Sheldon Tennenbaum for providing the backing and support needed throughout this process. I would also like to thank Patrick Graham for all his efforts prior to his retirement, our staff, and especially Lori Lynah, Director of Marketing and Air Service Development, who along with our air service consultant, Brad Difiore, spearheaded our pursuit of JetBlue.”