DOT Fines JetBlue $2 Million for Chronic Delays; Half to Affected Customers

Jan 3, 2025, 03:13 PM

JetBlue Airways has been fined $2 million by the U.S. Department of Transportation for operating multiple chronically delayed flights and engaging in 'unrealistic scheduling' practices. This is the first time the DOT has imposed such a penalty on an airline for these prohibited scheduling practices. Half of the fine—$1 million—will go directly to customers affected by the chronic delays or who will be affected in the next year. The DOT cited JetBlue's routine delays on specific East Coast routes as the basis for the penalty, which involved four chronically delayed flights on domestic routes. The enforcement action reflects the department's aim to ensure airlines adhere to realistic scheduling to prevent prolonged delays for passengers.