JetBlue’s Long Beach flight a test for Reno

Passengers and cargo are increasing at Reno-Tahoe International Airport. Photo/LTN file

By Jason Hidalgo, Reno Gazette-Journal

Long Beach pie and Reno revelry crossed paths in the Biggest Little City on Monday as a new JetBlue flight arrived to a band and cheering squad on the tarmac at Reno-Tahoe International Airport.

Underneath all the fanfare and positive vibes, however, is the latest test for Reno-Sparks — specifically in its efforts to add more flights and maintain its newfound momentum following a severe recession. It is the second major flight addition for JetBlue to Reno following its nonstop service to New York City.

The positive performance of the New York flight was cited as a key reason for the new Long Beach route. Asked about any new routes in the works for Reno, one JetBlue official expressed optimism to the Reno Gazette-Journal about more potential routes, at least in the West.