JetBlue Puts New Domestic First Class, BlueFirst, on Sale Across More Than 30 Routes
JetBlue began selling its new domestic first class, BlueFirst, on more than 30 routes, with the first flight set for Dec. 8 between Boston and Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
The seats will be sold on domestic flights that are not currently served by JetBlue's lie-flat Mint business class, which the airline offers on longer routes. The launch is part of an overhaul of the carrier's fare options, which will include basic fares that do not come with items such as seat assignments, a standard option and a "flex" option that is refundable and easier to change.
After the Boston-Fort Lauderdale flight on Dec. 8, BlueFirst will be added on routes between Fort Lauderdale and New York's LaGuardia Airport, with additional flights rolled out over the following weeks and months. JetBlue is offering introductory fares on select flights, including $299 from Boston to Fort Lauderdale, $249 from New York to Fort Lauderdale and $299 from New York to Liberia, Costa Rica.
BlueFirst seats recline up to 5 inches and offer up to 7 inches more legroom than Main cabin seats, JetBlue said. The cabin also includes Bluetooth-connected seatback screens, food and beverage options, Group 1 boarding and expedited security.
Three tiered fares are sold within BlueFirst. BlueFirst Base, the lowest-cost option, includes one checked bag, priority check-in and security and Group 1 boarding; seat selection is free within 24 hours of departure, but changes and cancellations carry fees. BlueFirst includes two checked bags, free seat selection and no change or cancellation fees. BlueFirst Flex adds refunds for cancellations made before departure, with no fees for same-day switches or standby.
The new cabin comes as JetBlue seeks a return to steady profitability by growing its higher-priced offerings amid strong demand for more expensive and roomier seats, CNBC reported.
"We designed BlueFirst to deliver a more accessible first-class experience that combines the thoughtful hospitality and service customers expect from JetBlue with exceptional value and comfort," JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty said in a news release. "We're excited that customers can now start making BlueFirst part of their travel plans."