JetBlue has opened bookings for its new BlueFirst domestic first-class service on more than 30 routes, as the airline expands its higher-priced seating options.
The first BlueFirst flight is scheduled to operate on December 8 between Boston and Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Services between Fort Lauderdale and New York’s LaGuardia Airport will follow, with further routes being introduced in the weeks and months ahead.
BlueFirst will be offered on domestic flights that do not have JetBlue’s lie-flat Mint business-class service, which is available on longer routes.
Passengers will receive seats reclining by up to five inches and up to seven inches more legroom than in the airline’s Main cabin. The service also includes Bluetooth-enabled seatback screens, food and drink options, Group 1 boarding and expedited security.
Introductory fares include $299 flights from Boston to Fort Lauderdale, $249 flights from New York to Fort Lauderdale and $299 flights from New York to Liberia in Costa Rica on selected services.
BlueFirst will be split into three fare levels. BlueFirst Base includes one checked bag, priority check-in and security, and Group 1 boarding. Seat selection is free within 24 hours of departure, while changes and cancellations incur fees.
The standard BlueFirst fare includes two checked bags, free seat selection and no fees for changes or cancellations. BlueFirst Flex offers the same benefits, alongside refunds for cancellations made before departure and fee-free same-day switches or standby travel.
The launch forms part of an overhaul of JetBlue’s fare structure, which will also include a basic option without benefits such as seat selection, a standard fare and a refundable Flex option that can be changed more easily.
JetBlue chief executive Joanna Geraghty said: “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. We’re excited that customers can now start making BlueFirst part of their travel plans.”
