JetBlue
Article by
Laura House
2009 AIGA CORPORATE LEADERSHIP AWARD
Recognized for reimagining the air-travel experience and
building its revered brand from a people-centered, value-driven,
design-based approach.
From top: JetBlue logo; aircraft tailfin and hanger designs;
screenshot from jetblue.com.
Just when it seemed as if all civility and charm had departed
air travel, JetBlue arrived.
Since launching in 2000, JetBlue Airways has embraced a corporate
personality and set of brand values unique among airlines—nice,
fresh, smart, stylish and witty. This distinct persona is seen in
most every touch point, from its approachable website to its
state-of-the-art home terminal at New York's JFK International
Airport. With its optimistic “Happy Jetting” tagline and vibrant
orange-and-blue color scheme, JetBlue proves that low fares can
come with exceptional service and an enjoyable experience.
Engaging design and communication have been part of the
company's DNA since JetBlue's emergence almost a decade ago, a
testament to its stated mission: “To bring humanity back to air
travel.” Iconic tailfin patterns serve as brand motifs. Check-in
kiosks use friendly language (such as “howdy”) and helpful
interface design. The company's approach both to its aesthetic and
the customer experience is democratic, too. Every customer receives
the same “first class” treatment on board, with a wide selection of
live, free entertainment at every seat through 36 channels of
DirecTV and more than 100 channels of XM Satellite Radio;
complimentary snacks (including the official potato chip Terra
Blues); and generous legroom. JetBlue was the first airline to
offer in-flight email and messaging, with its “BetaBlue” aircraft.
It is also the only airline to offer a Customer Bill of Rights,
outlining the terms of compensation for customers inconvenienced by
service disruptions within JetBlue's control. Along with those
perks, the company continues to expand its destinations while
offering competitive fares.
In 2010, in conjunction with its 10th anniversary, JetBlue plans
to refresh a number of design elements, from modifications to the
aircraft cabin and uniforms to introducing a new tailfin design.
However, looks aren't everything. JetBlue aims to be socially
responsible by supporting more than 75 charities per month in the
cities it serves. Aware of air travel's environmental consequences,
JetBlue also created “Jetting to Green,” a three-part initiative to
reduce impact, encourage volunteerism and adopt best practices from
environmental experts. The company already operates the most
fuel-efficient fleet of any U.S. airline, and seeks safe,
innovative ways to continually reduce fuel burn and greenhouse gas
emissions, recycle and reduce waste.
By focusing on design and value at every level JetBlue stands
out from other airlines, and through its commitment to putting
people first has made the air travel experience pleasant again.
Happy jetting, indeed.