JetBlue Links Fort Myers and Buffalo — Big Travel News for SWFL Snowbirds

Starting March 26, 2026, JetBlue will begin offering direct flights between Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) and Buffalo Niagara International Airport (BUF). The service will run three times weekly — on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

The route is part of JetBlue’s broader expansion in New York and Florida, giving residents of Southwest Florida a direct connection to upstate New York — no layover needed.

For many in Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs and the rest of SWFL — especially retirees, part-timers, and “snowbirds” — the new route is likely to become a seasonal staple. A direct Buffalo-Fort Myers flight simplifies travel plans: no extra hops, easier scheduling, and for some — cheaper tickets.

Buffalo and surrounding upstate New York counties often send visitors down to Florida for winter. With this new direct link, the convenience factor goes way up — which means more potential traffic to RSW, and more tourism dollars flowing into the region.

For locals heading north for holidays, family visits, or snowbird shifts — the route offers a fast, direct connection that could save hours compared with multi-leg alternatives.

JetBlue’s scheduling — three flights a week — reflects a target audience: leisure travelers, seasonal residents, and those chasing warmer weather. This isn’t business-travel frequency, but it fits well with snowbird cycles and seasonal migration patterns.

Because the route connects two regions with strong seasonal demand in opposite halves of the year, it could help bridge shoulder-season lulls — increasing inbound tourism when locals might prefer quieter winters, and offering Florida residents an easier escape during summer or holidays.

From an airport-traffic and economic standpoint, RSW may see a boost — more flights, more passengers, more activity. For local businesses in hospitality, real estate, and tourism, that’s a positive signal: demand growth, potential new customers, and more visibility for SWFL as a year-round destination.

This will be a seasonal route at launch — so availability, frequency, and fares may vary depending on demand, holidays, and seasonality. Travelers should check schedules carefully, especially around peak winter and spring-break periods.

As with any new route, capacity, timing, and demand will dictate long-term success. If bookings lag, JetBlue could pull back or limit schedule — so for now, this looks like a promising, but not guaranteed, travel asset.