It seems that JetBlue may be working on introducing more premium seating across its entire non-Mint Airbus fleet starting in 2026.
According to Live and Let’s Fly, JetBlue is looking to bump up its revenue stream after its string of losses, and failed merger with Spirit Airlines. The carrier is finally acknowledging the premium market, and may introduce “Mini Mint” recliner-style first-class domestic seats to its non-Mint aircraft, with the exception of its Embraer E-190s.
It seems that the airline may most likely go with the very popular Collins Aerospace MiQ business class recliner seats featured used by a number of airlines including American, United, Delta, Turkish, Aeromexico, Air Canada, Caribbean, and more.
Credit: Collins AerospaceIf these are indeed the seats chosen, they include features such as four-way adjustable headrests, up to 10 inches of recline, optional privacy visors and extendable foot rests, retractable arm rests (aisle side only), and have integrations for IFE displays, power outlets and literature storage. Here is Caribbean Airlines’ version of these seats from one of my last reviews.
What aircraft will feature “Mini Mint” seats
Credit: Bradley Wint/Gate CheckedIt’s not clear if “Mini Mint” will be the final name, but from the numbers, it seems the carrier does not plan to sacrifice seating count to install these roomier seats. This means both Core and Even More Space passengers will see a reduction in seat pitch, while Mini Mint will feature 36 to 37 inches of seat pitch.
JetBlue has been known for having more seat pitch in economy, with cabins generally offering 32 inches of pitch over the standard 30 inches (or less on other low cost alternatives). However when these new domestic first class seats are added, JetBlue’s economy seat pitch will also go down to 30 inches.
Even More space passengers who traditionally would benefit from up to 7 inches of extra legroom, will now be limited to 5. Here is a comparison of the old and new layout. Unfortunately the Even More Space portion has not been broken down, so the economy figures are lumped together as one.
| Aircraft Type | Current Config | Planned Config |
|---|---|---|
| Airbus A220 | 25 Even More Space and 115 Core totaling 140 seats | 8 Mini and 135 economy totaling 143 seats |
| Airbus A320 | 42 Even More Space and 120 Core totaling 162 seats (newer layout) | 12 Mini and 150 economy totaling 162 seats |
| Airbus A321ceo | 42 Even More Space and 158 Core totaling 200 seats | 12 Mini and 186 economy totaling 198 seats |
| Airbus A321neo | 42 Even More Space and 158 Core totaling 200 seats | 12 Mini and 188 economy totaling 200 seats |
If this does come to pass, economy passengers will have to deal with more cramped conditions. The airline will also have to fight harder to stand out as taking away those extra inches would basically kill their competitive edge in economy market.
On the other hand, with with the increasing demand for premium products, this is a good way for the money to earn additional revenue, build a more desirous loyalty plan, and hopefully move towards turning a profit within the next few years.
Featured image: Bradley Wint/Gate Checked
