JetBlue to Launch Service to Amsterdam

There’s big news for travelers planning a trip to Europe. JetBlue Airways has unveiled its newest nonstop destination as it expands its international offerings across the Atlantic Ocean. By later this summer, JetBlue will begin daily flights to Amsterdam.

The new service to The Netherlands will mark JetBlue’s third European destination following the launch of its London service in 2021 and the start of its flights to Paris planned for June 2023.

JetBlue aims to open up booking for the new Amsterdam flights in the coming weeks, but dates and schedules for the service launch aren’t set in stone yet.

After all, it was only recently that a Dutch court struck down a plan by the government to limit flights into Amsterdam Airport Schiphol — a decision that made room for JetBlue at the hub airport.

JetBlue is already plotting a familiar course for its Amsterdam rollout. The airline will start its Amsterdam service with flights from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, with service from Boston Logan International Airport to follow.

New JetBlue flights could drive down prices

According to JetBlue’s CEO Robin Hayes, it should help bring down the cost of flying to Amsterdam overall. Today, only a few airlines serve the market from the U.S. — American, Delta and United — as well as Dutch carrier KLM.

“This route is long overdue for some competition,” Hayes said in a statement announcing the new routes. “We will bring fares down and improve the experience for customers flying between the U.S. and Amsterdam.”

About flying to Europe on JetBlue

JetBlue’s flights to Europe are noteworthy because they’re on smaller planes than many travelers are accustomed to for many transatlantic flights.

JetBlue passengers flying to Amsterdam — like those visiting London and Paris — will travel aboard the carrier’s fleet of Airbus A321-LR (long-range) aircraft. Unlike the Boeing 777 and other large planes common on overseas flights, the Airbus A321-LR is a single-aisle aircraft.

JetBlue Mint to Europe

It certainly stands out from the planes used on many of JetBlue’s domestic flights, though. Many of its short-hop flights don’t include a true first-class or business-class experience.

JetBlue’s A321-LR’s have a full complement of two dozen Mint suites (including two extra spacious Mint Studios), complete with lie-flat beds, premium dining and large entertainment screens ideal for relaxing on an overnight flight.

» Learn more: Where you can fly business class in lie-flat seats

JetBlue economy to Europe

But whether you’re situated upfront or in one of the other 114 seats, you’ll be flying on some of the newest aircraft in JetBlue’s fleet, which means updated bells and whistles, from the lighting to 10.1-inch seatback screens and other features at your seat.

JetBlue says it has the “most legroom in coach.” That certainly goes a long way on the longer flights.

What also may stand out for many travelers flying JetBlue transatlantic, though, is the food. The airline dubs it “farm-to-tray,” with customized ordering from New York-based restaurant Dig. The improved economy catering setup allows you to select a main course and two sides off the touchscreen at your seat, from a seasonally rotated menu.

Economy flyers age 21 and older also get free alcoholic beverages on JetBlue transatlantic flights.

Earning Mosaic elite status in JetBlue’s revamped True Blue program through flying or spending with a co-branded credit card like the JetBlue Plus Card could help further enhance your travel experience with perks like earlier boarding, free baggage or access to the extra-legroom Even More Space seats.

» Learn more: The guide to JetBlue Blue Basic tickets

Navigating Amsterdam Schiphol Airport

If there’s one thing travelers may balk at in the new service to The Netherlands, it’s Amsterdam Schiphol Airport itself. The airport was plagued by extremely long security lines a few times in summer 2022.

As airport officials have worked to make changes in recent months, one of the best steps travelers can take to avoid a long wait is to try the airport’s new tool that allows you to reserve your spot in the security line free of charge.

But with crowds even larger than last year expected beginning in late spring, travelers planning a trip to Amsterdam (and wondering how early they should arrive for a flight) should keep an eye on the airport’s website to see how operations are faring during 2023’s peak months.

JetBlue service to Amsterdam is good for travelers

JetBlue enters a new market with its newest transatlantic service to Amsterdam, both a key destination and gateway city for travelers visiting Europe.

That’s probably a good thing even for travelers who ultimately fly with another airline since competition is generally good for driving down flight prices.