JetBlue founder expected to launch new start-up airline

JetBlue Airways founder David Neeleman is launching a new airline, buying 60 Airbus A220-300 jets worth $5.4 billion.

JetBlue and WestJet founder David Neeleman has committed to buying 60 Airbus A220-300 aircraft for a new US airline he is launching.

The memorandum of understanding was signed on Tuesday at the Farnborough Airshow in England.

The new airline is expected to target small and midsize airports in cities including New York, Chicago and Los Angeles.

Speaking to USA Today, Mr Neeleman will seek to capitalise on anger aimed at congested larger airports.

“After years of U.S. airline consolidation, the conditions are improving for a new generation of U.S. airline to emerge, focused on passenger service and satisfaction,” he said.

“The A220 will enable us to serve thinner routes in comfort without compromising cost, especially on longer-range missions. With deliveries starting in 2021, we will have ample time to assemble a world-class management team and another winning business model.”

The most recently launched “mainline” airline was Virgin America 11 years ago.

David Neeleman is also an investor in TAP Air Portugal and a controlling shareholder in Azul Brazilian Airlines.

The new airline is tentatively called Moxy.