CHARLOTTE, N.C. (WBTV) – JetBlue is returning to Charlotte with new nonstop flights to Fort Lauderdale for the first time since 2024, the airline announced this week, shortly after Spirit Airlines shut down indefinitely.
JetBlue announced the move on Monday, May 4 as part of a broader expansion following the collapse of one of its major competitors. Spirit Airlines went out of business after failing to secure a $500 million federal buyout.
JetBlue said it plans to expand service at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport as part of “an effort to support travelers following the shutdown of Spirit Airlines.”
The airline also announced $99 “rescue fares” and plans to add 10 other destinations from Fort Lauderdale in addition to the Charlotte-Douglas International Airport flight.
The Charlotte expansion is set to begin July 9, 2026, with three daily flights between the Queen City and Fort Lauderdale.
“We’re stepping up for Fort Lauderdale to ensure the availability of air service in this market,” JetBlue President Marty St. George said in a press release.
JetBlue’s expansion includes other destinations such as Baltimore and Indianapolis, along with new international service to cities in Colombia. JetBlue is also adding flights on existing routes from Fort Lauderdale to destinations like Detroit, Houston, Chicago and Ponce, Puerto Rico.
The airline also plans to allow some Spirit customers to carry over loyalty perks.
JetBlue said Spirit Airlines Free Spirit Silver and Gold members can request a status match to JetBlue’s reward program.
“We know many Spirit customers are feeling the loss of the loyalty they built over time,” said St. George.
Details of expansionRoute: Fort Lauderdale (FLL) ↔ Charlotte (CLT) nonstopFrequency: Three flights dailyStart date: July 9, 2026Booking: Available now on JetBlue’s website/app
Learn more on JetBlue’s website here.
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