United ending 66 jobs at Jacksonville International

Company said layoffs are part of effort designed to keep costs competitive

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – According to a new report, United Airlines says it is laying off 66 employees from Jacksonville International Airport.

United Spokesperson Luke Punzenberger said the layoffs are part of an effort to remain competitive by cutting cost.

"This is a difficult decision, but we need to make sure our costs remain competitive," Punzenberger said.

All of the affected employees were told about the layoffs in January and given the opportunity to transfer to another airport with United, as long as they were eligible, (good work record).

The official paperwork was filed with the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity Tuesday and says that the layoffs will take effect in May.

The statement also says that the layoffs will include operations positions like customer service, baggage handling and ramp operations.

News4Jax is still waiting to hear how many jobs will still be left at the airport after the layoffs take effect.