JetBlue will end its daily nonstop service between Orlando International Airport and San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport on July 8, removing another direct Florida option for travelers between Costa Rica and the United States.
The Costa Rica Tourism Institute confirmed the cancellation after the airline informed authorities that it would suspend the Orlando–San José route as part of a broader route adjustment tied to higher fuel costs and a renewed focus on Fort Lauderdale. La Teja reported that JetBlue will stop operating the route on July 8 and prioritize markets where it faces less competition, while strengthening its Fort Lauderdale hub.
The move comes less than a month after Spirit Airlines shut down all Costa Rica operations, eliminating its San José flights to both Fort Lauderdale and Orlando. That closure immediately reduced low-cost options on one of the most popular U.S. travel corridors for Costa Ricans, especially for families visiting Orlando’s theme parks and shopping areas.
JetBlue’s Orlando route has long been part of the airline’s Costa Rica network. The company first began serving Costa Rica with San José flights in March 2009 and later built its service around Florida and New York connections.
The airline is not leaving Costa Rica. According to the ICT’s May 2026 international flight schedule, JetBlue currently operates daily flights from Fort Lauderdale to both Liberia and San José, daily flights from New York to both Liberia and San José, and daily flights from Orlando to San José. After July 8, the Orlando nonstop will be removed, but the Fort Lauderdale and New York routes remain key options for Costa Rica travelers.
For passengers who still need to reach Orlando, the route will not disappear completely from the market. The ICT’s May schedule lists Southwest and Volaris with daily Orlando–San José service, while Frontier is listed with flights on Thursdays and Sundays beginning May 21. Frontier also began positioning itself on the San José–Orlando route after Spirit’s collapse, with El Financiero reporting that the airline shifted service to Orlando from a previous San José–Atlanta operation.
JetBlue customers may also still reach Orlando through connections, mainly via Fort Lauderdale. ICT officials also pointed to Houston connections through United codeshare options, although that is not the same as a JetBlue-operated nonstop.
The cancellation fits into a wider network reshuffle by JetBlue. The airline has been expanding Fort Lauderdale service, including new and increased flights scheduled for July, and has described the airport as a major focus for its South Florida growth strategy. In addition, JetBlue is trimming several underperforming routes while shifting aircraft and capacity toward Fort Lauderdale.
For us here in Costa Rica, the timing is notable. Orlando is one of the most familiar U.S. destinations for Costa Rican travelers, while Florida remains one of the most important connection points for tourists, residents, expats and families moving between the two countries. The loss of JetBlue’s daily nonstop does not cut off Orlando service, but it does reduce competition on a route already hit by Spirit’s exit.
Those who booked on JetBlue’s Orlando–San José route after July 8 should check their reservations directly with the airline. Passengers comparing new itineraries should review baggage fees, connection times and refund rules carefully, since low-cost fares on this route often vary widely once carry-on bags, checked luggage and seat selection are included. Lastly, don’t forget to look into travel insurance to protect you from these types of issues.
