Saturday, June 7, 2025

JetBlue is taking the leap this summer by adding strong new nonstop service from Boston to Traverse City, opening up one of America’s greatest and underappreciated vacation destinations. Crafted to provide unparalleled coastal getaways, the seasonal service brings New England travelers to Michigan’s breathtaking lakeside haven—ideal for outdoor recreation, lively culture, and natural beauty—emphasizing JetBlue’s role as a game-changer in reimagining the travel experience this summer.

JetBlue has expanded its summer travel portfolio by introducing an exciting seasonal nonstop service linking Boston Logan International Airport to Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City, Michigan. This new route is part of the airline’s broader strategy to enhance its leisure-focused destinations during peak vacation periods, offering greater convenience for travelers seeking unique, nature-rich escapes.

The service, which officially launched on June 5, will operate exclusively during the summer season and is scheduled to run through October 25. Flights will be available on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, designed to cater to both weekend getaways and extended stays in Northern Michigan. As the leading airline in Boston in terms of destination coverage, this new route reinforces JetBlue’s commitment to growing its footprint from its Logan hub while providing travelers with more accessible options to underexplored domestic regions.

Traverse City, often referred to as one of the Midwest’s best-kept secrets, sits along the shimmering shores of Grand Traverse Bay and is renowned for its blend of coastal charm, outdoor adventure, and a flourishing culinary scene. With the launch of direct flights from Boston, JetBlue is bridging the gap between New England and this picturesque destination, enabling travelers to reach the Lake Michigan coast without layovers or complicated itineraries.

The airline’s decision to serve Traverse City reflects increasing demand for leisure travel to smaller, nature-oriented cities that offer an escape from busy urban environments. With quick and direct access, more travelers are now likely to consider Traverse City as an appealing summer getaway.

JetBlue operates its Boston to Traverse City route with the Airbus A220, a modern narrow-body aircraft engineered for exceptional comfort and fuel-efficient performance on medium-distance journeys. The aircraft features a five-abreast seating arrangement and modern cabin design, ideal for leisure travelers who value a smoother in-flight experience.

The outbound service from Boston departs at 9:40 a.m. and touches down in Traverse City at 11:56 a.m. The return flight leaves at 12:45 p.m. and arrives back in Boston at 2:47 p.m. These times are designed to give travelers a full afternoon to begin their Michigan adventures or return home with minimal disruption to their day.

This schedule offers flexibility for weekend trips or longer holidays, making it easier for passengers to plan a summer escape around their availability. With its inclusion of Sunday operations, the service is particularly attractive for short-term visitors.

To kick off the launch of this new route, JetBlue has introduced promotional fares starting as low as \$69 one-way. These affordable introductory rates are expected to attract a wide range of travelers, from solo adventurers and couples to families seeking a memorable summer trip. The fare promotion aims to increase awareness of Traverse City’s appeal and drive early bookings during the initial months of service.

The combination of affordable fares and direct flight access makes Traverse City a compelling choice for travelers seeking a less crowded, more budget-friendly summer getaway compared to traditional tourist hotspots. Travelers who might not have previously considered Northern Michigan are now able to enjoy its charm without logistical hurdles.

JetBlue’s seasonal expansion to Traverse City underscores its ongoing strategy to serve emerging destinations with strong tourism appeal. The airline has made it clear that it is focused on identifying and serving high-potential markets that align with current traveler interests, particularly in nature-based tourism and regional exploration.

By tapping into markets like Traverse City, JetBlue is diversifying its route map and appealing to passengers who seek authentic experiences in scenic destinations that are less frequented than mainstream beach resorts or urban centers.

This move also supports two-way connectivity—allowing not just New England residents to explore the Great Lakes region, but also giving residents in Northern Michigan improved access to the East Coast. This two-directional traffic strengthens both local economies and tourism industries.

Traverse City is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culinary and wine culture, and abundant opportunities for outdoor adventure and exploration. Nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, the city offers visitors access to beaches, boating, and historic lighthouses. Nature lovers can explore the stunning landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which features hiking trails, sand dunes, and panoramic lake views.

Beyond its natural attractions, Traverse City boasts a vibrant cultural identity with numerous art galleries, farm-to-table restaurants, and wineries. The city is home to annual festivals and events, drawing crowds throughout the summer months for entertainment and culinary experiences that celebrate local flavors and traditions.

The city’s walkable downtown area is filled with shops, cafes, and waterfront parks, offering a laid-back atmosphere ideal for both families and solo travelers. Whether visitors are seeking outdoor adventure, fine dining, or simply a quiet retreat by the lake, Traverse City delivers on all fronts.

The addition of Traverse City to JetBlue’s summer schedule exemplifies the airline’s dedication to smart, seasonal route planning. By aligning new services with peak demand periods, the airline is maximizing operational efficiency while giving customers fresh and exciting travel options.

Seasonal routes allow airlines to test markets and gather performance data without committing to year-round service. If successful, the route could potentially be extended or expanded in future seasons. This agile approach to network planning keeps the airline competitive in the rapidly evolving travel landscape.

For passengers, this route opens up an easy, affordable way to discover a unique corner of the country. For the Traverse City region, the added connectivity is expected to boost tourism and benefit local businesses during the critical summer travel window. It represents a win-win scenario that brings new energy to regional tourism development.

JetBlue is disrupting summertime travel with new nonstop service from Boston to Traverse City, providing visitors with direct access to the Midwest’s best-kept secret and one of the region’s most spectacular yet underappreciated vacation spots. This seasonal service provides the ultimate mix of adventure, character, and lakeside elegance for unforgettable summer getaways.

JetBlue continues to evolve its route network by identifying under-the-radar destinations with strong seasonal demand, ensuring its passengers have access to fresh travel experiences. The launch of this new Boston–Traverse City route solidifies the airline’s role in reshaping domestic leisure travel with innovative, customer-focused offerings.