JetBlue to launch domestic first-class cabin in 2026

JetBlue will launch its first-ever traditional domestic first-class cabin, named BlueFirst, in late 2026. The airline, which built its brand on an all-economy core, announced the new premium product for routes that do not feature its Mint business-class service.

Bookings for BlueFirst will open this fall. The airline plans to deploy the cabin across its network on aircraft and routes where Mint is not available.

Cabin specifications and seating

The BlueFirst seats will be arranged in a two-by-two configuration. They will offer five inches of recline and up to seven inches more legroom compared to seats in JetBlue's standard main cabin. The seats will use a specially designed T&N Flex foam developed by mattress company Tuft & Needle.

Each seat will feature a 13.3-inch entertainment screen with Bluetooth connectivity, USB-A and USB-C ports, and a standard 110-volt power outlet. Passengers will continue to receive complimentary access to JetBlue's Fly-Fi high-speed internet.

JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty stated the move is a response to predictable domestic first-class offerings. "Customers are increasingly looking for more premium experiences, and BlueFirst gives them an raise experience that feels distinctly JetBlue," Geraghty said.

In-flight service and dining

A key feature of BlueFirst will be seatback ordering. Passengers can select meals, drinks, and other onboard products directly from their entertainment screens.

The airline is introducing a Mixologist Mode. This allows travelers to create custom cocktails by selecting a spirit, mixer, and flavoring before sending the order electronically to a flight attendant.

On flights of at least 899 miles, passengers will receive a meal served in a bento-style box. The box will contain an entrée, side, and dessert. Initial menu selections will include sweet or savory crepes and sesame noodles with a choice of beef or tofu.

JetBlue will also offer premium snacks, sommelier-selected wines, and specialty coffee and tea. Passengers on overnight flights will receive a blanket and a sleep kit.

Travel benefits and fare types

BlueFirst customers will receive a suite of travel benefits. These include Group 1 boarding, dedicated overhead-bin space, priority check-in, and access to expedited security lanes at more than 30 airports. Other perks are two free checked bags and priority baggage delivery.

The airline will offer two ticket types: BlueFirst and BlueFirst Flex. Neither will carry change or cancellation fees. JetBlue noted that benefits offered with its lowest-priced BlueFirst Base fare may vary.

Specific fares, inaugural routes, and the aircraft type for the launch have not been announced. The airline said those details are expected later in 2026.

JetBlue introduced its lie-flat Mint business-class product in 2014 on select transcontinental routes. Mint has since expanded to transatlantic, Caribbean, and Latin American services. Until now, the airline's most premium option on flights without Mint has been EvenMore, which provides extra legroom and priority benefits but uses a standard economy-style seat.