JetBlue Airways has released details of its new, long-awaited domestic first-class option, BlueFirst.
BlueFirst passengers will be greeted with larger, plush seats in a two-by-two formation, with seatback screens measuring over 13 inches that are part entertainment system, part interactive ordering menu.
“Domestic first class has become easy to predict. We think it’s time for a fresh take,” Joanna Geraghty, JetBlue's chief executive officer, said in a Sept. 1 release. “Customers are increasingly looking for more premium experiences, and BlueFirst gives them an elevated experience that feels distinctly JetBlue, with thoughtful touches, caring service and great value.
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BlueFirst is scheduled to debut later this year in
markets that are not currently served by the carrier's existing premium service, JetBlue Mint, which features lie-flat seats and other premium perks. In Florida, that means Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL), Orlando International Airport (MCO), and Palm Beach International Airport (PBI).
After its largest low-budget competitor, Spirit Airlines, abruptly closed up shop in May, JetBlue has been pouring resources into the South Florida market, even canceling other routes and pulling out of low-performing airports to focus on Fort Lauderdale.
Here's what BlueFirst travelers can expect:
Fast boarding
BlueFirst passengers will receive Group 1 boarding, dedicated overhead bin space, priority check-in, and can use an expedited security checkpoint lane available at more than 30 airports. BlueFirst and BlueFirstFlex fares have no change or cancel fees, two free checked bags, and priority baggage delivery, the airline said.
New seats, entertainment and connectivity
Passengers can settle into plush, specially designed seats featuring Tuft & Needle’s T&N Flex foam with personalized support and responsive pressure relief, the carrier said.
“Customers told us loud and clear that comfort matters most, so that’s where we started. We worked with Tuft & Needle to create an added level of comfort that makes BlueFirst feel different from the moment you sit down,” Geraghty said.
The airline said the cabin will use a two-by-two configuration. The seats will have a wide shared armrest, five inches of recline, and "offer up to seven inches of additional legroom," compared to other JetBlue seats.
Travelers will be able to pair their own wireless headphones to the 13.3-inch seatback entertainment screens, the airline said. Each seat will have USB-A, USB-C, and 110VAC power, along with complimentary Fly-Fi internet service. A "snooze kit" and blanket will be distributed on overnight trips.
Seatback ordering and onboard dining
JetBlue said passengers will be able to order food and drinks directly from their seatback screens.
The new "Mixologist Mode" lets customers choose spirits, mixers, and flavorings for their own custom cocktail, or you can order beverages including wine, coffee from Cometeer and Joe Coffee, and premium Smith Teamaker teas, delivered in premium Fable glassware and artist-designed coasters.
All BlueFirst passengers can choose from a selection of rotating premium snacks from Cape Cod Chips, Wholesome Bakery and more. Anyone traveling more than 899 miles can order FirstFare, a curated meal of an entrée, side, and dessert delivered in a bento-inspired box, the release said.
"Customers can choose from options like sweet or savory crepes or sesame noodles with beef or tofu, to name a few, for a flavorful meal designed to delight, " the release said.
“Traditional first-class food and beverage can feel stuck in the past," Geraghty said in the release. "BlueFirst is our way of refreshing the experience for today’s traveler. From creating your own cocktail and ordering right from your seatback screen, to a thoughtfully crafted seat that offers responsive comfort, we’re making the experience more personal, modern and fun. Premium should feel special, not stuffy.”
The seating option will open for booking this fall, with additional specifics on availability and initial routes coming "later this year," JetBlue said. The news comes after the airline announced a new fare structure in July with four seating types.
In addition to BlueFirst, those include Main, its renamed "signature onboard experience"; the premium economy EvenMore; and Mint, a premium lie-flat seating option.
Other budget airlines adding premium services
JetBlue isn't the only low-cost airline hoping to attract travelers with premium services.
Ultra-low-cost Allegiant Air is launching its new premium, two-by-two seating option, called Allegiant First, at one Florida airport starting in March 2027.
Last year, Frontier Airlines added UpFront Plus seating with extra legroom and an empty middle seat at the front of the plane, along with other elite services.
C. A. Bridges is a journalist for the USA TODAY Network-Florida's service journalism Connect team. You can get all of Florida’s best content directly in your inbox each weekday by signing up for the free newsletter, Florida TODAY.
This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: First look at JetBlue's new first class BlueFirst plush seats, perks
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