JetBlue

The case details the history of JetBlue from securing slot rights at JFK to the highlights of growing a successful start-up airline in the midst of industry turmoil. Competition and industry dynamics are discussed, followed by a closer look into the personalities of CEO and Founder, David Neeleman and President/COO, Dave Barger. The first issue highlighted in the case occurs when Dave Barger has to ask the company’s VP of Technical Operations to resign. The second issue has to do with how Dave and David manage employee relations in an environment where the threat of organized labor is always present. And finally, the case discusses David’s decision to host a fundraising breakfast for a New York gubernatorial candidate, and the importance of managing government relations.