JAC says JetBlue exit may raise Newark fares temporarily as airlines adjust

The Dominican Republic expects to maintain growth in tourist arrivals despite recent airline route cancellations, with authorities expressing confidence that the market will adapt and preserve the country’s air connectivity.

Civil Aviation Board (JAC) President Héctor Porcella acknowledged that airfares on the Newark–Dominican Republic route could temporarily increase following JetBlue’s suspension of its direct service. However, he said airlines such as United Airlines and Arajet are expected to absorb much of the demand, helping stabilize prices over time.

Porcella noted that airfare increases are influenced not only by reduced competition but also by rising aviation fuel costs, which can account for up to 40% of an airline’s operating expenses.

Passenger traffic between Newark and the Dominican Republic continues to grow despite the route changes. During the first half of 2026, nearly 720,000 passengers traveled between the two destinations, a 13% increase compared with the same period in 2025. The JAC projects the route will carry about 1.44 million passengers by the end of the year, surpassing 2025 levels.

The recent suspension of JetBlue’s Newark service, Wingo’s routes from Bogotá to Santo Domingo and Punta Cana, and Spirit Airlines’ exit from the Dominican market have raised concerns about competition. Porcella said the JAC reviews every airline withdrawal to assess its impact on connectivity and noted that JetBlue attributed its decision to a broader effort to eliminate unprofitable routes amid financial challenges.