JetBlue Airways announced Wednesday it will offer flights to Florida out of Stewart International Airport in Newburgh.

Local leaders hope JetBlue will put Stewart Airport on the map. The discount carrier will offer flights, starting with introductory fares of $79 each way, non-stop to Fort Lauderdale, Orlando and West Palm Beach. The first JetBlue flight will take off from Stewart on December 19, just in time for residents who want to head south for the holidays.

JetBlue's presence could be an early Christmas present for Hudson Valley in more ways than one. Officials say the expanded service at Stewart should drive down airfares across the board. Earlier this month, another low-fare carrier, AirTran Airways, announced it will also be offering service from Newburgh.

Related Information New discount airline flies into Stewart International Airport