The United States has its fair share of domestic airlines that provide ample competition in the low-cost sector. Frontier, Spirit and JetBlue have become staples in the domestic discount airline space, with travelers not expecting much from the low-fare, no-frills carriers. But JetBlue has its sights set higher, possibly into the blue beyond also known as the Atlantic Ocean. After having considered a major move for a few years, JetBlue is toying with the idea of expanding service to Europe.

The idea to expand to Europe is no secret, as the airline has hinted to its customer base such a move could be coming, but the airline announced plans to make a final decision in 2019. This decision will come in the form of a request to Airbus to make a long-haul version of the Airbus A321 planes already a part of its fleet.

If announced and the plan moves forward, the airline may face steep competition among other low-cost trans-Atlantic carriers, such as Norwegian and Level, as well as competition to obtain slots at major airports such as London Heathrow, the prices of which can reach tens of millions of dollars. Although an announcement may come within months, it may take years until JetBlue is able to fly from the United States to Europe.