Delta vs jetBlue: Delta's push from Boston as jetBlue mounts a Mint attack from that key base

During the last three years Delta Air Lines has been steadily expanding at Boston Logan International airport - a strategic focus city for jetBlue Airways that serves as its second largest base. Delta's latest additions from Boston include a mix of business and leisure markets, including the highly competitive route to San Francisco.

As Boston's largest airline, jetBlue works towards its goal of 150 daily departures from the airport, Delta has declared that it will reach 90 daily peak day departures from the airport by Jun-2017. Delta is also touting its level of first class cabin offerings from Boston as jetBlue expands its Mint premium product on routes from the airport. However, Delta's first class offerings do not feature the same flatbed experience as Mint offers.

Delta has hinted at further expansion from jetBlue's Boston stronghold. The scope of Delta's plans for the airport remains unknown, but lucrative corporate markets and leisure routes with little competition appear to be Delta's preference for the foreseeable future. Boston is not likely to become a huge battleground, but Delta aims to grow its presence in the market for the benefit of itself and its joint venture partners.