JetBlue cancels 68 flights due to snow

NEW YORK, Feb. 26 (UPI) -- JetBlue Airways Corp., stung by a snow-related operational meltdown two weeks ago, canceled 68 of 170 flights Monday due to snow and sleet in New York.

The canceled flights at Kennedy International Airport affected flights to or from Columbus, Ohio; Richmond, Va.; Portland, Maine; Chicago and Washington, the company said.

The move came after a Valentine's Day ice storm exposed serious weaknesses in the airline's contingency planning.

About 2,500 flights were either canceled or left on the runway for as long as 10 hours, with overwhelmed staff and crews not knowing what to do.

Chief Executive David Neeleman apologized profusely for the service breakdown and promised to improve the airline's communications system and strengthen its management.

JetBlue also introduced a passengers "bill of rights," guaranteeing passenger refunds and compensatory treatment during delays.

JetBlue attempted by e-mail and telephone to notify passengers whose Monday flights were canceled, the airline said. It waived change fees and fare differences for passengers rebooking with the airline, provided they rebook by Thursday, JetBlue said.

The carrier did not say how much Monday's service disruptions would cost. Neeleman estimated the Valentine's Day meltdown, which lasted until Feb. 19, cost the company $30 million.