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As Spirit Airlines exits the stage, JetBlue is moving quickly to claim some of its former routes to Colombia. Leisure travelers and frequent flyers who mourn the budget carrier’s bright-yellow planes may find relief in fresh daily service from Fort Lauderdale to two lesser-served Colombian cities.
JetBlue adds direct Fort Lauderdale flights to Cali and Barranquilla
JetBlue announced two new U.S.–Colombia connections that restore routes left thin after Spirit’s collapse. The airline will operate daily flights from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to two regional airports in Colombia.
Why this matters for budget travelers and loyalty members
With fewer low-cost choices in the market, some fear fares could rise. JetBlue is attempting to soften that blow by offering a special loyalty accommodation: JetBlue has said it will match Spirit’s Free Spirit status for qualifying members. That move could keep perks and benefits intact for many displaced flyers.
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Cali: Salsa nights, city culture, and a new nonstop from Florida
Cali has a long reputation as Colombia’s salsa capital. The inland city blends lively nightlife, street food, and cultural events. It has been less easy to reach directly from the U.S. than Bogotá or Medellín—until now.
- Launch date: October 15, 2026
- Frequency: Daily flights
- Route: Fort Lauderdale (FLL) → Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport (CLO)
What to expect when you arrive in Cali
Expect vibrant neighborhoods, salsa academies, and affordable dining. Security perceptions vary, and travelers should research neighborhoods before arrival. Our current safety indicators rank the city around 45 out of 100, reflecting mixed traveler sentiment.
- Plan night activities around well-reviewed areas and guided tours.
- Keep a local SIM or offline maps to navigate neighborhoods safely.
- Check up-to-date entry rules for Colombia before departure.
Barranquilla: Coastal character, carnival culture, and quieter beaches
Barranquilla is a port city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. It often flies under the radar compared with Cartagena or Santa Marta. But its shoreline, riverfront markets, and cultural festivals make it an interesting alternative.
- Launch date: October 1, 2026
- Frequency: Daily flights
- Route: Fort Lauderdale (FLL) → Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport (BAQ)
Highlights and nearby nature
Barranquilla combines urban life with access to quiet beaches like Puerto Colombia and Pradomar. Parque Isla de Salamanca, a mangrove-rich national park north of the city, offers wetlands and birdwatching away from crowded resort strips. Travelers can also pair Barranquilla with Santa Marta, just two hours away.
- Parque Nacional Natural Tayrona is within reach for beach and jungle hikes.
- Santa Marta ranks higher on safety tools, around 65 out of 100.
- Consider a multi-city itinerary to see both Barranquilla and Santa Marta.
Flight logistics, traveler tips, and what to check before booking
JetBlue’s move fills gaps on previously underserved routes and may keep competition alive on select corridors. Travelers should watch fares, loyalty-matching updates, and local entry rules.
- Ticketing tip: Look for JetBlue’s notices about Free Spirit status matching before you book.
- Entry requirements: Verify visas, vaccination rules, and passport validity for Colombia.
- Safety checks: Consult recent traveler reviews and safety indices for neighborhoods you plan to visit.
- Packing: Bring lightweight clothes for the coast and a light jacket for higher-altitude cities.
How to maximize the new routes
- Book early to lock in introductory fares and seat availability.
- Layer experiences: combine city culture in Cali with coastal nature near Barranquilla or Santa Marta.
- Use airline status or matched loyalty benefits for extra flexibility when plans change.
