JetBlue Expands Upstate New York Presence with New Year-Round Nonstop Service Connecting Rochester and Orlando
JetBlue (NASDAQ: JBLU), New York’s Hometown Airline®, today announced a major enhancement to its route network with the introduction of year-round nonstop service between Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC) and Orlando International Airport (MCO). The new route, set to launch on March 26, 2026, will operate five times per week, connecting travelers from Western New York directly to the heart of Central Florida.
This latest expansion underscores JetBlue’s ongoing commitment to providing travelers in Upstate New York with affordable fares, superior service, and more convenient travel options.
Strengthening JetBlue’s Upstate New York Network
JetBlue’s decision to introduce this new nonstop connection reflects the airline’s growing investment in Upstate New York communities. The Rochester–Orlando route will mark yet another step in JetBlue’s broader strategy to enhance its service footprint beyond major metropolitan hubs and into key regional markets where demand for leisure and business travel continues to grow.
“JetBlue is proud to grow in Rochester, bringing our low fares and award-winning customer experience to more travelers,” said Dave Jehn, JetBlue’s Vice President of Network Planning and Airline Partnerships. “Orlando is one of the most popular destinations for Upstate New Yorkers, and this new route gives customers an easy way to get to the sunshine, theme parks, and all the attractions Central Florida has to offer.”
JetBlue’s new Rochester–Orlando service will offer seamless connectivity between two vibrant destinations—one known for innovation, education, and economic vitality, and the other for leisure, entertainment, and tourism.
Connecting Western New York to the Sunshine State
The new nonstop service will operate five days a week—Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays—providing flexible options for both vacationers and business travelers. The schedule is designed to accommodate weekend getaways as well as longer stays in Florida, with convenient midday departure and arrival times:
| Route | Flight Number | Departure | Arrival |
|---|---|---|---|
| Orlando (MCO) → Rochester (ROC) | #1042 | 11:50 AM | 2:37 PM |
| Rochester (ROC) → Orlando (MCO) | #1043 | 3:35 PM | 6:25 PM |
With this addition, JetBlue becomes the airline offering the most nonstop connections between New York State and Orlando, now serving the Florida destination from eight different airports across the Empire State.
A Longstanding Commitment to New York
JetBlue’s relationship with Rochester dates back to 2000, when the airline first began operations at Greater Rochester International Airport. Since then, JetBlue has played an important role in making air travel more accessible for the region’s residents, offering convenient service to New York City and beyond through its extensive domestic and international network.
As the only major airline headquartered in New York, JetBlue’s continued expansion reinforces its role as a hometown carrier that understands and invests in the communities it serves. The addition of the Rochester–Orlando route builds on the company’s deep-rooted presence throughout the state, connecting local economies and supporting regional growth.
Voices of Support from New York Leaders
The new route has been met with enthusiasm from community leaders and elected officials who recognize the potential economic and social benefits of expanded air connectivity.
“Rochester-Finger Lakes residents should prepare for takeoff because JetBlue is bringing back flights between Orlando and the Greater Rochester International Airport!” said U.S. Senator Charles Schumer of New York. “This new connection to sunny Orlando will help our local economy take off and provide residents with more destinations to warmer climates as winter approaches. I have long urged JetBlue to add even more routes in Upstate New York, and I am very pleased to welcome this one.”
The announcement also drew praise from local tourism boards and business groups, who expect the route to drive both inbound tourism and outbound leisure travel. The Rochester–Orlando connection is anticipated to boost the local hospitality sector, enhance visitor traffic, and strengthen the city’s reputation as a key regional air hub.
Celebrating with Special Introductory Fares
To celebrate the launch, JetBlue is offering introductory one-way fares starting at just $49, available exclusively on jetblue.com. The limited-time offer provides an opportunity for early travelers to experience the airline’s signature comfort, reliability, and award-winning service at an unbeatable price.
Passengers booking the new route can look forward to JetBlue’s signature travel experience, which continues to set the airline apart from its competitors.
The JetBlue Experienc
Every flight is designed with comfort, convenience, and customer satisfaction in mind. Travelers on the new Rochester–Orlando route will enjoy:
- Free high-speed Wi-Fi (Fly-Fi®) on every aircraft
- Live television and entertainment at every seatback screen
- Complimentary snacks and beverages throughout the flight
- Spacious seating with the most legroom in coach (based on average fleet-wide seat pitch among U.S. airlines)
- Award-winning customer service recognized for its friendliness and reliability
With these amenities, JetBlue continues to redefine the in-flight experience, offering both value and comfort to travelers seeking more than just a standard flight.
Building for the Future
JetBlue’s new Rochester–Orlando route aligns with the airline’s long-term vision to strengthen its position as a leading carrier in key U.S. regions while expanding its network of leisure destinations. The decision also reflects broader commitment to sustainability and operational efficiency, with the airline continuing to invest in new, fuel-efficient aircraft and initiatives that reduce its environmental impact.
The expansion comes at a time when demand for domestic leisure travel remains robust. Florida continues to be one of the top destinations for travelers from the Northeast, while Rochester and the Finger Lakes region are gaining attention as emerging hubs for technology, education, and tourism. The new connection is expected to facilitate two-way traffic—bringing more visitors to Upstate New York while giving residents easy access to Florida’s year-round attractions.
About JetBlue
It is New York’s Hometown Airline® and a leading carrier in Boston, Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood, Los Angeles, Orlando, and San Juan. The airline serves more than 100 destinations across the United States, Latin America, the Caribbean, Canada, and Europe.
It is recognized for offering a unique combination of low fares and high-quality service, consistently earning top marks for customer satisfaction. The airline’s continued investment in innovation, sustainability, and community partnerships underscores its mission to inspire humanity—both in the air and on the ground.
Source link: https://www.businesswire.com