JetBlue Completes First Test Run of Transatlantic A321LR Operations

The Image Above: N4022J, JetBlue's Airbus A321LR. Photo Credit: Airbus

JetBlue achieved the first of many milestones today as part of its expansion across the pond, as the first test flight touched down at London Heathrow today.

Such a test flight has been made in preparation for the airline's launch into London Heathrow and Gatwick later on this Summer. 

Maja Gedosev, JetBlue's General Manager for Europe noted this as a key milestone for the carrier:

"Hello, London!!! Key milestone achieved today as our first JetBlue A321LR test flight touched down at Heathrow!! Congratulations to all JetBlue Crewmembers and a huge THANK YOU to our amazing partners dnata and Heathrow Airport for your incredible support!"

The Image Above: RadarBox data featuring N4022J operating the test flight between New York's JFK and London Heathrow

B69400 (JBU9400) departed New York's John F Kennedy International Airport at 2024 local time on July 12, around 90 minutes late before arriving in London at 07:34 local time the next day. 

N4022J was delivered to JetBlue on April 29 this year via a ferry flight between Hamburg and New York, with this test flight marking its entry into service.

The aircraft has the name Joel Peterson on the side of the aircraft, honoring the former chairman of the airline who served in the company from May 2008 to May 2020. 

When the route goes live officially, the aircraft will carry 138 passengers in a two-class configuration, consisting of 114 in Economy and 24 in its Mint Business Class.

Overall, this is great news for JetBlue, who will now seek to press ahead for launch day coming up very soon!