The announcement that Jet Blue will begin twice daily flights from New York to Bermuda has caused another airline to postpone their planned launch of a daily flight from LaGuardia.

Earlier in the year it was announced that Spirit Airlines, a low cost carrier, planned to launch a daily flight this year. However, JetBlue's plans to fly out of JFK airport in New York have caused them to reconsider.

Airport General Manager James Howes said Spirit officials attribute their decision to the entry of JetBlue.

JetBlue's arrival on the Island has triggered intense price competition among American, Continental, and JetBlue in the New York-BDA market, resulting in average fares dropping by half or more.

JetBlue begins its service on May 4 with one-way flights starting at $129. Currently roundtrip flights on American Airlines or Continental Airlines to New York hover around $350.

Mr. Howes said that prior to JetBlue's announcement ticket prices averaged a steep $700 for the short flight.

Spirit Airlines has not ruled out Bermuda as market just yet, it will evaluate the traffic to the Island this summer before making any decisions.

"Spirit officials remain very interested in serving Bermuda, and discussions are also continuing about other possible routes, besides New York," Mr. Howes said.

He said the postponement of Spirit Airlines service did not come as a surprise to the airport and that they had anticipated it was a possibility.

Bermuda International Airport will now have six daily flights from New York area airports by American, Continental, and JetBlue, plus two weekly flights by USA3000.

In addition, Northwest Airline will again offer a weekly non-stop flight from Detroit.