JetBlue Airways, New York's hometown airline, has signed a partnership agreement with Dubai carrier Emirates to offer travelers seamless connections to cities across the globe via New York's John F. Kennedy (JFK) International Airport.

JetBlue operates one of America's youngest airline fleets, with 157 Airbus and Embraer aircraft. It is the leading airline at JFK Airport offering premium low-fare service to dozens of cities throughout the Americas and carries more travelers than any other airline.

Over the next few days, customers will be able to purchase joint Emirates-JetBlue itineraries via the GDS, online travel agencies, and by calling Emirates reservations, said a top company official after signing the deal.

'We are pleased to partner with Emirates as we continue to expand JetBlue's global reach,' said Scott Resnick, the airline's director of airline partnerships.'

'As per the agreement, customers can now book a single combined ticket for JetBlue and Emirates-operated flights and enjoy one-stop check-in and baggage transfer between the airlines.'

'With its impressive network spanning six continents, its respected and recognized brand, and its reputation for premium customer service, Emirates is a perfect fit for JetBlue's growing portfolio of international partners,' he noted.

From JFK, Emirates offers two daily nonstop flights to its global hub at Dubai International Airport – including service aboard its flagship A380 and its ultra long range 777-300ER – both of which offer travelers fine dining, personalized service and multi award-winning entertainment options.

In addition to the appeal of its home of Dubai, the commercial and tourism hub of the UAE and the Gulf region, Emirates will offer JetBlue customers from cities such as Boston, Chicago, Orlando, and Washington new access to an impressive array of onward destinations.

'Our new partnership with JetBlue will enable customers from across the United States to connect quickly and easily to Emirates' extensive network of worldwide destinations,'' said Nigel Page, Emirates senior vice president of Commercial Operations for Americas and Africa.

'Via Emirates' exclusive home at Dubai's state-of-the-art Terminal 3, customers can connect to cities as diverse as Auckland, Bangkok, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Nairobi, Singapore and Sydney plus ten cities in India, points throughout the Middle East, and a host of exotic island getaways including the Maldives, Mauritius, and the Seychelles.'

''With both Emirates and JetBlue recognized for their best-in-class services, this is a natural partnership which will enable air travelers within the Americas to look forward to more choice, convenience, value and comfort than ever before,' he added.

At JFK Airport, JetBlue operates from its acclaimed new 26-gate Terminal 5, while Emirates operates from the adjacent Terminal 4, allowing for fast and easy connections between flights.-TradeArabia News Service