Thousands of healthcare workers could receive free round-trip flights to take a well-deserved getaway when the coronavirus pandemic subsides.
JetBlue airlines announced an initiative to give 100,000 healthcare workers free round-trip airfare as part of the company’s effort to show its gratitude to the doctors and nurses who have been battling COVID-19.
Of the 100,000 flights that will be given away, 10,000 have been set aside for healthcare workers in New York City. The airline is hoping to add some excitement to the “Clap Because We Care” movement on Thursday night by conducting a low flyover of the city as residents stand outside their homes and applaud healthcare workers.
“JetBlue’s mission of inspiring humanity is stronger now more than ever,” Joanna Geraghty, JetBlue’s president and CEO, told Business Wire. “We applaud the healthcare workers who are helping us get through this challenging time and inspiring humanity along the way. This is an opportunity for us to fly it forward and show our appreciation for the heroic efforts of medical professionals, first responders and public servants — not just here in our home of New York but around the country as well.”
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo thanked the company for its effort to give back to healthcare workers. He tweeted, “JetBlue is donating a pair of round-trip flights to 100,000 medical personnel and nurses to honor their efforts, beginning with 10,000 NY medical professionals. What a great way to thank so many of our frontline heroes.”
.@JetBlue is donating a pair of round-trip flights to 100,000 medical personnel and nurses to honor their efforts, beginning with 10,000 NY medical professionals.
What a great way to thank so many of our frontline heroes. #NationalNursesDay
— Andrew Cuomo (@NYGovCuomo) May 6, 2020
People can register healthcare professionals for the “JetBlue Healthcare Hero” program by filling out a form online. The company said, “To thank healthcare heroes across the country, we’re giving away 100,000 pairs of round trip flights — so they can take a vacation when the time is right.”
Airlines have suffered major losses because of the pandemic. Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao said airlines can expect to see billions in economic relief from the federal government to help them recover from the economic downturn.
