In a recent statement released by JetBlue Airways, it was announced that Carl Icahn has successfully secured seats on the board of directors. This comes after Icahn disclosed a nearly 10% stake in the New York-based airline and expressed his interest in board representation. The two new directors appointed are Jesse Lynn, the general counsel of Icahn Enterprises, and Steven Miller, a portfolio manager at Icahn Capital. Following this announcement, JetBlue’s shares saw a positive increase of about 4% in after-hours trading.
This move by Carl Icahn in JetBlue Airways isn’t his first venture into the airline industry. One of his past investments involved taking TWA private in the late 1980s, which eventually led to the airline struggling and filing for bankruptcy. Despite this history, Icahn has stated that he believes JetBlue’s shares are undervalued. As of Friday’s close, JetBlue’s stock has been on a decline, down more than 19% over the past year, while the NYSE Arca Airline Index, which follows the broader sector, has seen a 7% increase during the same period.
With the recent appointment of Joanna Geraghty as JetBlue’s new CEO, the airline has been making efforts to regain stability and profitability. Geraghty has expressed the company’s commitment to delivering value to shareholders while focusing on its distinct brand and value proposition. JetBlue has also brought on board a pair of experienced airline veterans to help steer the company in the right direction.
JetBlue’s financial situation has been challenging, with the airline failing to post a profit since before the Covid-19 pandemic. In response, the company has been cutting costs and striving to enhance reliability following a surge in post-Covid travel. A proposed merger with budget carrier Spirit Airlines was recently blocked by a federal judge, citing concerns about reduced competition. Both JetBlue and Spirit Airlines are currently appealing this ruling in hopes of moving forward with their plans.
Carl Icahn’s successful bid for board seats at JetBlue Airways marks a significant development in the airline industry. With new leadership and strategic appointments, JetBlue is determined to overcome its financial challenges and emerge stronger in the competitive market.