SYRACUSE - JetBlue Airways will eliminate its Syracuse to Ft. Lauderdale non-stop flight commencing January 6, 2009.  Reductions in service to Ft. Lauderdale will begin during the month of September.  However, during the months of October through December 2008, the full flight schedule to Ft. Lauderdale will be reinstated.

JetBlue flights from Syracuse to Orlando and New York City will not be affected.  Due to their strong performance, these flights will remain intact.

James Smith, Director of Corporate Real Estate of JetBlue, informed Mayor Matt Driscoll during a phone conversation on Wednesday that the airline would institute a four percent reduction in service system-wide because of the unprecedented cost of jet fuel.

Mayor Driscoll said, “I am disappointed in this reduction of service to Ft. Lauderdale by JetBlue, however I am extremely concerned about the fuel crisis and its affect on air service not only in Central New York, but nationwide.”  Driscoll continued, “Nationwide, our economy is struggling already and municipalities across upstate New York are attempting in every way possible to attract and retain business.  This country’s fuel crisis exacerbates this situation, as businesses rely on convenient, affordable air service to link to their markets globally.”

“South Florida is an increasingly important destination for Central New York business and leisure travelers,” said Irwin Davis, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Development Association of Syracuse and Central New York. We recognize the difficult conditions facing the airline industry but firmly believe that Syracuse-Ft. Lauderdale is a viable route.  We encourage JetBlue to reconsider this decision and, working with Mayor Driscoll, we will continue our dialogue with the airline regarding this service.”

A memorandum of understanding between the City and JetBlue included eighteen months (November 2007 to April 2009) worth of monthly credits towards their landing fees, common fees and marketing assistance for the Ft. Lauderdale flight.  A provision in the MOU stipulated that if the flight was stopped or suspended, the incentive program would no longer be applicable.

While some airline cutbacks have occurred at Syracuse Hancock International Airport, overall Syracuse is faring better than the industry average in a difficult environment of high fuel costs.  Current statistics show the number of flights this fall will remain steady compared to the number of flights last fall.