United Plans JFK Return

United Airlines could start flying to New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport in early 2021. The airline would end its five-year absence from one of the country’s most congested airports. A firm timeline hasn’t been finalized yet but plans are in motion, according to people familiar with the matter, CNBC reports. United will need to get approval from regulators first as JFK is one of the most tightly controlled airport.

For now, NYC residents and those in the surrounding areas, has to travel to United’s hub at Newark Liberty International Airport. JFK is a hub for both American Airlines and Delta Air Lines, and it is the primary operating base for JetBlue. So coming back to JFK would be a big boost for United. Back in 2017, newly appointed CEO Scott Kirby said that leaving JFK in 2015 was a mistake and has since expressed interest in returning to the airport.

The quick timeframe though is still surprising and a big bet from United that air travel will rebound from the coronavirus woes. It is good new for millions of people, who could soon have yet another major carrier within reach.