JetBlue is poised to upgrade its fleet with a new premium offering, provisionally named “Mini Mint,” which will be implemented on aircraft that currently do not feature the existing Mint business class. This effort is part of JetBlue’s approach to target premium markets, particularly in Boston and New York. By the end of 2024, JetBlue has affirmed its intentions to launch this first-class option, coinciding with the debut of its BlueHouse lounges, the first of which will be located at JFK.
The schedule for rollout, disclosed by JonNYC, suggests that certification for the new seating is in progress, with the initial prototype anticipated by June 2026. Full deployment throughout the fleet is slated to start in August 2026, with a goal of retrofitting 20 aircraft per month, culminating by 2027. The Collins Aerospace MiQ seat, also utilized by competitors such as American Airlines, will be part of this updated cabin, though detailed information on the soft products remains limited.
JetBlue’s reconfiguration strategy includes modifications to seating capacities: A220s will feature 143 seats (8 first class), A320s will have 162 seats (12 first class), A321ceos will accommodate 198 seats (12 first class), and A321neos will consist of 200 seats (12 first class). This optimization is accomplished by decreasing economy seat pitch from 32″ to 30″, while Mini Mint and EvenMore seats will provide 36-37″ and 35″ respectively.
This strategic initiative responds to JetBlue’s necessity to increase revenue by delivering a product that passengers are inclined to invest in, particularly as the airline faces challenges in justifying a premium for its enhanced economy offering. The appetite for premium travel remains strong, especially within JetBlue’s major markets, and this plan could bolster loyalty program participation and elevate long-haul Mint sales.
In conclusion, JetBlue’s “Mini Mint” aspires to deliver a domestic first-class offering, with a prototype expected by mid-2026 and complete fleet integration by 2027. Although this entails a reduction in economy legroom, such a strategy is crucial for JetBlue’s fiscal recovery and corresponds with consumer market trends. What do you think about JetBlue’s upcoming first-class service?