Air TransportJetBlue considers legal action over Lisbon Airport slot access
JetBlue is weighing legal measures against the Portuguese government, claiming U.S. airlines face systematic barriers to obtaining landing slots at Lisbon Airport.
The carrier argues that these restrictions violate the Open Skies agreement between the United States and the European Union, which is designed to ensure fair and reciprocal market access for airlines on both sides of the Atlantic.
According to JetBlue, only 33% of slots at Lisbon are held by U.S. carriers, compared to a 45% average share for European airlines at American airports. The airline says this discrepancy has persisted since 2023, despite its requests for additional slots to expand transatlantic services.
JetBlue has formally asked the U.S. Department of Transportation to consider reciprocal action against Portugal. The company recently ended its codeshare with TAP Air Portugal, citing competitive concerns, and has since sought to strengthen its European network through an approved ‘Blue Sky’ partnership with United Airlines.
A321LR aircraft
Industry observers note that limited slot availability at Lisbon reinforces TAP Air Portugal’s dominant position at the airport, potentially restricting competition and choice for passengers.
JetBlue operates its international flights with Airbus A321LR aircraft, which allow nonstop services from U.S. cities such as Boston and New York to several European destinations, including London, Paris, and Madrid.
JetBlue, originally a domestic low-cost airline, has expanded its long-haul portfolio in recent years, targeting key European markets. The current dispute is part of broader concerns raised by U.S. carriers about airport slot allocation practices in Europe.
If JetBlue proceeds with legal action, the case could prompt a review of slot allocation policies at Lisbon and other European airports, with potential implications for transatlantic airline competition.
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Ricardo Meier
Creator of the website that started in 1996 as a magazine. He also writes on Brazilian websites AUTOO, MOTOO and MetrôCPTM.
