JetBlue Puts Its New First Class, BlueFirst, on Sale

JetBlue has opened bookings for BlueFirst, its new first-class seats for flights within the United States. The airline said on Thursday that BlueFirst will be offered on more than 30 routes. It will be available on flights that do not already have Mint, JetBlue's business class with seats that turn into flat beds on longer trips.

BlueFirst is part of a bigger change to JetBlue's ticket types. The airline will have basic fares without extras such as seat choice, a standard fare, and a flex fare that can be refunded and changed more easily. JetBlue wants to return to steady profits by selling more higher-priced tickets, because many passengers are asking for roomier seats.

The first BlueFirst flight is on December 8, from Boston to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Flights between Fort Lauderdale and New York's LaGuardia Airport come next, and more routes will be added over the following weeks and months. For a limited time, JetBlue is offering introductory fares on some flights: $299 from Boston to Fort Lauderdale, $249 from New York to Fort Lauderdale and $299 from New York to Liberia, Costa Rica.

The seats recline up to 5 inches and give up to 7 inches more legroom than Main seats, JetBlue said. Passengers also get seatback screens that connect by Bluetooth, food and drinks, early boarding in Group 1 and a faster security line.

BlueFirst has three levels:

• BlueFirst Base costs the least. It comes with one checked bag, priority check-in, a faster security lane and Group 1 boarding. You can choose your seat for free only in the last 24 hours before the flight, and changing or canceling costs a fee.
• BlueFirst includes two checked bags and free seat selection, with no change or cancellation fees.
• BlueFirst Flex offers the same perks and also gives refunds if you cancel before departure, plus no fees for same-day switches or standby.

JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty said the airline designed BlueFirst to be a more accessible first-class experience with good value and comfort.