JetBlue Introducing Major Change to First Class

JetBlue has been a leader not just for budget airlines, but the U.S. aviation industry at large in introducing changes like free Wi-Fi on all flights. In 2026, JetBlue passengers looking for a little extra comfort will have a new seating choice at their disposal. 

On Dec. 11, the airline announced that starting in 2026, it will be adding domestic first-class seats to planes that aren't already equipped with Mint lie-flat seats, JetBlue's version of the first class experience. The goal is to create a more attractive seating option for customers with more disposable income. 

"Since launching Mint over a decade ago, we’ve explored the idea of expanding a version of it across the fleet, often playfully calling it 'mini-Mint' or 'junior Mint,'" company president Marty St. George said of the move, per NBC News. Because Mint "can’t be duplicated on shorter flights," JetBlue innovated the new setup to allow passengers with a little extra spending cash to pay for more space on shorter domestic flights. Currently, Mint is only available on some transcontinental domestic flights and a number of international transatlantic routes. 

Related: JetBlue Announces a Big Change to Its Basic Economy Baggage Policy

Details on the so-called "junior Mint" remain light for now. "We’re keeping the rest of our ideas under wraps for now while we prepare for a 2026 launch," St. George said. "Let’s keep our competitors guessing."

As JetBlue continues to tighten up its portfolio and improve the passenger experience on its existing routes, it could become a go-to option for a bevy of curious flyers looking for a change.