Brinker said the airline had never experienced a full meltdown before, so it hadn't needed to use this type of database. The system, which was developed in 24 hours and implemented in the middle of JetBlue's crisis, has now been implemented as a full-time system, he said.

"It's a real behind-the-scenes improvement for both our crew members and customers," he said.

Brinker said JetBlue is also improving the way it communicates with its customers, including pushing out automated flight alerts to customers via e-mail and mobile devices. The company issued a Customer Bill of Rights citing steps the airline will take in the event of future delayed flights, cancellations and other issues.