JetBlue Secures Rights to LaGuardia’s Historic Marine Air Terminal

JetBlue is poised to expand its footprint at LaGuardia Airport after winning an auction for 22 arrival and departure slots previously held by the now-bankrupt Spirit Airlines. The airline’s $58.5 million bid narrowly surpassed a $57.5 million offer from Frontier Airlines, which will serve as a backup should the primary deal fail to close.

If finalized, the acquisition will increase JetBlue’s total daily slot allocation at the airport from 31 to 53. The airline has indicated it is currently evaluating how to deploy these additional resources, with any resulting service expansion expected to commence in 2027. The sale remains subject to a hearing in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York, scheduled for this Thursday, with a final order anticipated by August 5. Federal Aviation Administration approval is also required.

Operating out of the Marine Air Terminal could offer the carrier potential cost efficiencies. The facility, designed by Delano & Aldrich and opened in 1940, is celebrated for its Art Deco architecture and the iconic “Flight” mural by James Brook. While the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey has committed to preserving the landmarked structure, it plans to continue modernization efforts on the terminal’s non-landmarked 1980s-era boarding areas to accommodate future passenger demand.

Spirit Airlines had utilized the terminal for its operations starting in 2022 before ceasing all flights in May 2026. Port Authority officials expressed support for the transition, noting that the auction underscores the airport's ongoing importance to the regional aviation network. JetBlue has stated that it is exploring how to best leverage the space to provide competitive service to New York travelers.