JetBlue Airways Plans to Introduce Domestic First-Class Seats in 2026
JetBlue Airways is set to add domestic first-class seats on its Airbus aircraft without its top-tier Mint class in 2026. The latest initiative is aimed at attracting higher-paying customers and helping the airline return to profitability.
According to Marty St. George, JetBlue’s president, the airline will install two or three rows of domestic first-class seats on its Airbus planes without Mint. St. George explained that Mint, JetBlue’s lie-flat seats, can only be introduced on longer flights, and the company needed to find another solution for shorter flights.
The new domestic first-class seats will be introduced in 2026, with details on the project still under wraps. St. George hinted that the airline is working on additional ideas to cater to customers willing to pay for more space on shorter flights.
JetBlue’s decision comes as the airline has been focusing on increasing sales and cutting costs following its failed bid to acquire Spirit Airlines and its anticompetitive partnership with American Airlines in the Northeast. The airline is also revamping its European service and cutting unprofitable routes, including a new flight between Boston and Madrid announced on Tuesday.
The introduction of domestic first-class seats is part of the airline’s efforts to attract higher-paying customers and compete with other airlines that offer premium seats and services. Alaska Airlines recently announced plans to evaluate and upgrade its premium seat offerings following its merger with Hawaiian Airlines. JetBlue has also announced plans to build its first lounges this year.