RONKONKOMA, NY – JetBlue is expanding its presence at Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) with the addition of two seasonal routes to popular Florida destinations – Tampa and Fort Myers – set to begin in mid-December. The new flights are part of the airline’s broader winter schedule, aimed at boosting leisure travel options from the Northeast to warm-weather destinations.
Starting December 18, 2025, JetBlue will operate three weekly flights between ISP and Fort Myers (RSW) on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays. A day later, on December 19, the airline will launch four weekly flights between ISP and Tampa (TPA), running Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Both routes are scheduled to run through late April 2026.
To promote the launch, JetBlue is offering introductory one-way fares starting at $49, available for booking through August 17, for select travel dates in January and February.
These additions will join JetBlue’s current Florida destinations from ISP, which include Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and West Palm Beach, giving travelers five different Florida options from the convenience of Long Island.
The expansion comes as part of JetBlue’s larger winter schedule rollout, which includes new or enhanced service to Daytona Beach and Vero Beach from other Northeast hubs, as well as increased flights to Caribbean and Latin American destinations. The move reflects the airline’s strategy of targeting high-demand leisure markets during the colder months.
MacArthur Airport has been experiencing steady growth, with more than 1.36 million passengers in 2024. JetBlue’s initial service launch at the airport last year became profitable faster than at any other station in the airline’s network. Ongoing infrastructure improvements, including plans for a new terminal and enhanced transit connections, aim to further boost its appeal for travelers.
JetBlue’s Florida Routes from Long Island MacArthur Airport
| Destination | Start Date | Frequency | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fort Myers (RSW) | Dec 18, 2025 | 3× weekly | New |
| Tampa (TPA) | Dec 19, 2025 | 4× weekly | New |
| Fort Lauderdale (FLL) | Ongoing | Daily | Current |
| Orlando (MCO) | Ongoing | Daily | Current |
| West Palm Beach (PBI) | Ongoing | Several weekly | Current |
Introductory $49 fares available for new routes if booked by Aug 17 for select Jan–Feb travel.
Quick Facts:
- Introductory Fares: $49 one-way on new routes if booked by Aug 17 for select Jan–Feb travel.
- Season Dates (New Routes): Service runs Dec 2025 through late April 2026.
- Other ISP Service: JetBlue also flies to Caribbean and other U.S. destinations from Northeast hubs, connecting via MacArthur.
Flying from Long Island MacArthur Airport (ISP) to Palm Beach International (PBI) and other Florida airports is considered one of the simplest and most popular ways for New Yorkers, especially Long Islanders, to reach Florida. Here’s why:
1. Convenience for Long Islanders
- ISP is centrally located in Suffolk County, meaning travelers can skip the long drive or train ride into Queens (JFK/LGA) or Newark.
- Smaller airport = shorter TSA lines, easier parking, and quicker boarding compared to major NYC hubs.
2. Strong Year-Round Demand
- Florida flights, particularly to Palm Beach, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and Fort Myers, are popular for both vacationers and snowbirds.
- These routes have consistent passenger loads even outside peak holiday travel seasons.
3. Competitive Airline Service
- JetBlue, Southwest, and Breeze all compete on various Florida routes from ISP, which keeps fares competitive.
- Frequent, direct service to multiple Florida destinations makes it easy to match travel schedules without connections.
4. Ideal for Short Trips
- Nonstop flights from ISP to PBI average just under 3 hours, making it easy for weekend getaways or quick business trips.
5. Popular with Retirees and Families
- Many retirees travel back and forth seasonally.
- Families use these routes heavily during school breaks and holidays.
