JETBLUE, the New York-based budget airline, made a surprise announcement last week confirming an order for 100 Embraer 190 aircraft with deliveries starting in the third quarter of 2005. JetBlue is a low-fare airline providing a high-quality customer service. The airline has carried more than 13 million passengers since launching operations in February 2000. JetBlue features roomy all-leather seats each equipped with free live satellite television offering up to 24 channels. It currently serves 22 cities across the US and in Puerto Rico. This is the first time that a major utility airline has ordered a regional jet. Traditionally they have gone for mainstream aircraft in the 120/180 seat range. The airline also took options on 100 additional Embraer 190s. The Embraer 190 is a development of the about to be certificated Embraer 170. http://www.jetblue.com