It has been a big week for premium launches from US airlines. Following the unveiling of American Airlines’ first premium-heavy retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER, JetBlue has revealed details of BlueFirst, its new domestic first-class experience due to launch this autumn/fall.
BlueFirst domestic first class will be available on narrowbody aircraft in markets where JetBlue flies but are not currently served with its Mint business class. Together, Mint and BlueFirst will give premium JetBlue options, whether flying across the USA, across the Atlantic, or on a regional route.
The BlueFirst seats are arranged in a 2-2 configuration, with five inches of recline and up to seven inches of additional legroom compared to JetBlue’s Main (economy class) seats. A unique comfort feature is the use of Tuft & Needle’s T&N Flex foam, only available on JetBlue seats, which offers personalised support and responsive pressure relief. On overnight flights, BlueFirst customers will also receive a blanket and amenity kit.
Each seat will also feature a 13.3-inch seatback IFE screen with Bluetooth connectivity for wireless headphones. These IFE systems will include the newest version of Blueprint by JetBlue, the airline’s personalised inflight experience platform. Complimentary Fly-Fi high-speed inflight internet is available, and the seats are equipped with in-seat USB-A, USB-C and 110VAC power to keep devices charged.
“Domestic first class has become easy to predict. We think it’s time for a fresh take,” said Joanna Geraghty, CEO of JetBlue. “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.”
“Customers told us loud and clear that comfort matters most, so that’s where we started. We worked with Tuft & Needle to create an added level of comfort that makes BlueFirst feel different from the moment you sit down,” she added.
You can get a feel for BlueFirst in this video.
Premium service
The seatback screen can be used to select meals and browse onboard products. A highlight for BlueFirst customers is FirstFare, with meal choices served in a custom bento-inspired box. On flights of 899 miles or longer, each FirstFare selection includes a main course, side and dessert. Options include sweet or savoury crepes, or sesame noodles with beef or tofu, to name a few.
BlueFirst customers can also order premium snacks from brands like Sockerbit, Tosi, Wholesome Bakery, Pop Daddy Snacks and Cape Cod Chips, with selections varying by flight and route.
The inflight beverage offer in BlueFirst includes sommelier-selected wines from New York’s Parcelle, speciality coffee from Cometeer and Joe Coffee, and premium Smith Teamaker teas. There is also the option to access an interactive ‘Mixologist Mode’ in the seatback ordering system, where customers can create a custom cocktail by choosing their spirit, mixer and flavourings, sending their order directly to the inflight crew.
Customers can sip from premium glassware from Fable, complemented by artist-designed coasters created in collaboration with New York City illustrator Danielle Rose Fisher.
“Traditional first-class food and beverage can feel stuck in the past. BlueFirst is our way of refreshing the experience for today’s traveller. From creating your own cocktail and ordering right from your seatback screen, to a thoughtfully crafted seat that offers responsive comfort, we’re making the experience more personal, modern and fun. Premium should feel special, not stuffy,” said Geraghty.
BlueFirst customers can also enjoy Group 1 boarding, dedicated overhead bin space, priority check-in, and access to an expedited lane to the security checkpoint at more than 30 airports. BlueFirst and BlueFirst Flex fares have no change or cancel fees, and include two free checked bags and priority baggage delivery.
