Since 2009, JetBlue Airways has been the official airline of the New York Jets. In October of 2010, the carrier unveiled “JetGreen”, an Airbus A320 (N746JB) that was the airline’s first specially painted plane. Over the past seven years, that aircraft has represented the relationship between one of New York City’s NFL teams and its hometown airline.
On September 26, in the manner of a lively tailgate party in JetBlue’s hangar at New York’s John F Kennedy International Airport, a refresh of the aircraft was revealed. Attendees of the gathering included Jets players Buster Skrine (cornerback) and Bilal Powell (running back) as well as and former Jets defensive player Joe Klecko. Also on hand were cheerleaders, team executives, and some season ticket holders. Also in attendance were members of the Harlem Jets youth football team. The airline donated $10,000 to the youth team’s program which assists young people in reaching their full potential through academic development and participation in competitive sports.
“The relationship between JetBlue and the Jets has gone on for many years and is very, very important. I’m excited for the ability to sort of re-launch a really important part of that today,” said Marty St George, JetBlue’s Executive Vice President Commercial and Planning. He went on to say, “New York is home turf for JetBlue and the New York Jets and we both have loyal fans that expect more of us than the other guys. “We both work hard to make our product offerings accessible and affordable to those who supported us from day one. The new Jets aircraft will take our partnership to new heights, both literally and figuratively.”
“We are extremely proud to have a Jets-branded plane in the skies being piloted by our terrific partners at JetBlue,” said Neil Glat, New York Jets team president. “Our partnership with JetBlue exudes a true ‘hometown feel’ and engages our many fans throughout the entire greater New York area. We look forward to what lies ahead for our valued partnership in the years to come.”
The changes to the airplane are somewhat sweeping from the previous livery. Hash marks indicative of a football field have been added to the lower half of the fuselage and more Jets branding along the entirety of the plane. In addition to making the airplane all-green (well-deserving of the “JetGreen” name), the airline’s I Love New York emblem is now emblazoned near the front, under the flight deck. This, again, highlights JetBlue’s assertion as the only New York based airline.
After weeks of being out of commission for the repaint, “JetGreen” wasted no time in getting back into service following its unveiling. Later that same night, it flew to Tampa as JetBlue Flight 225. Look for it flying throughout the JetBlue system.
Top image courtesy JetBlue
Other images courtesy Doug Wint.
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