JetBlue unveiled its new BlueFirst cabin, featuring larger seats, priority perks, upgraded dining and interactive seatback screens.
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Domestic first class is coming to JetBlue flights, and the airline revealed details about the new seating option this week.
BlueFirst will feature a range of perks, from plush seats made with Tuft & Needle’s T&N Flex foam to seatback screens measuring over 13 inches that are part entertainment system, part interactive menu.
“Domestic first class has become easy to predict. We think it’s time for a fresh take,” JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty said in a Sept. 1 news 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. It’s another way we’re bringing our JetForward strategy to life and giving customers more reasons to choose JetBlue.”
Here’s what travelers can expect.
What will JetBlue’s domestic first class be like?
Passengers who book BlueFirst tickets will board in Group 1, but their priority access begins even earlier, with an expedited security lane available at over 30 airports. Once on board, they can settle into seats – arranged two-by-two – that recline up to five inches and “offer up to seven inches of additional legroom,” according to the release.
There will be 12 each on the carrier’s Airbus A220 and A320 planes, and 16 on its A321 aircraft.
Passengers can connect their own wireless headphones to their seatback screens via Bluetooth, and a “Mixologist Mode” also lets customers play bartender by picking a spirit, mixer and flavorings that crew members will put together in a custom cocktail.
Customers can also choose meals and other products from their screen. The airline will serve cuisine dubbed FirstFare in bento-style boxes.
“On flights 899 miles or longer, each FirstFare selection brings together an entrée, side and dessert,” 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.”
Passengers will also receive a rotating selection of snacks from Cape Cod Chips, Wholesome Bakery and more. A “snooze kit” and blanket will be distributed on overnight trips, and every seat will have USB-A, USB-C and 110VAC power.
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.
Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com.