Caring and integrity are not only two of JetBlue's values; they are the pillars on which the airline was built. JetBlue's mission of inspiring humanity both in the air and on the ground is applied to hiring and exceeding compliance requirements. Under the umbrella of its 'Reaching Blue Heights' initiative, JetBlue has been working for the past three years with the Viscardi Center, a New York-based organization that helps educate, employ and empower children and adults with disabilities.

Last month, the airline's mission of inspiring humanity came to life as a team of JetBlue crewmembers worked together to support a very special flight for students from the Viscardi Center.

The day started with a special breakfast at JFK International Airport before the flight carrying 12 students and their caretakers as well as Viscardi staff and nearly 50 customers departed for Boston. Upon arrival, the group explored the terminal and had lunch in the Emirates Lounge before boarding a flight back to JFK.

"After working with and volunteering at the Viscardi Center, we learned that some Viscardi students have never been able to fly due to the fear associated with traveling with a disability. We wanted to provide the JetBlue experience to these students and their families. While we are passionate about providing excellent service to people with disabilities, we can always learn more, and were proud to offer this experience to the wonderful students of Viscardi," said Bob Bilak, director crew relations and compliance at JetBlue. "

Following the flight, JetBlue will continue to work with Viscardi to discuss how to further enhance the customer experience for people with disabilities. In addition to this unique flight, JetBlue's Crew Relations, Compliance teams and Talent Acquisition teams provide career coaching to Viscardi students and alumni in an effort to create a talent pipeline for hiring people of all abilities at JetBlue. JetBlue has participated for the past three years in Disability Mentoring Day, a national effort around mentorship opportunities for individuals with disabilities. In May, Viscardi also honored JetBlue with its first-ever Corporate Excellence in Disability Practices Award.

JetBlue is committed to helping people with disabilities in Reaching Blue Heights. The airline is proud to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act and will be participating in the first Annual Disability Pride Parade, taking place on Sunday, July 12, 2015 in New York City.

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