Activist Carl Icahn Takes JetBlue Stake, Eyeing Board Seat (1)

Activist investor Carl Icahn took a 9.91% stake in JetBlue Airways Corp.with plans to seek at least one spot on the board, aiming to boost shareholder value in the wake of the near-collapse of the carrier’s deal to buy Spirit Airlines Inc.

Affiliates of the billionaire late Monday disclosed a position in JetBlue valued at $204 million, based on the day’s closing prices, making Icahn the third-largest shareholder in the carrier. According to a filing, the investor has already held talks with company leaders “regarding the possibility of board representation.”

JetBlue shares jumped 15% after the market opened ...