JetBlue has recently opened its first airport lounge in New York and has announced plans for its second location in Boston. The airline has also hinted at a third location, which they have now confirmed to be Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). However, they are facing challenges in securing an appropriate space within the airport.

JetBlue President Marty St. George stated during the first-quarter earnings call that they are actively looking for a space in Terminal 3, where JetBlue operates, but have not found a suitable solution yet. He also mentioned that FLL is the natural next step for the airline’s BlueHouse clubs, with their first location already open at JFK and plans for a second at BOS during the summer.

This news comes as no surprise, as JetBlue executives have previously suggested a future lounge at FLL. The airline has experienced significant growth at its Florida hub, adding nonstop flights to 21 cities and increasing frequencies on 20 other routes. This expansion was made possible by the availability of gates previously occupied by Spirit Airlines, who have faced financial struggles.

JetBlue considers FLL as the “third tentpole” of their operation, along with JFK and BOS. For now, the lounge at JFK is accessible to Mint passengers traveling to Europe, Mosaic 4 elite members, and JetBlue Premier Cardholders with a $499 annual fee. It is expected that the same access rules will apply to the new location in Boston.

However, the airline’s plans for a domestic first-class cabin may face delays. CEO Joanna Geraghty stated that the seats are currently undergoing certification with the Federal Aviation Administration and are expected to appear on the first aircraft by the end of the year. These seats will be available on JetBlue flights that do not have their international business-style Mint cabin.

Despite these exciting developments for customers, JetBlue continues to face financial challenges. The first quarter of 2021 saw a net loss of over $300 million for the airline, a result of rising jet fuel costs. This has led to a reduction in flights in their May schedule, with plans for further cuts later in the year, particularly during off-peak times.

JetBlue has not been profitable since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.