JetBlue to introduce first class on domestic routes: Here’s when the rollout begins

JetBlue is finally set to introduce first class on its domestic routes after teasing the possibility years ago.

Dubbed “Mini Mint” or “Junior Mint,” the first-class product will feature a recliner-style premium cabin that bridges the gap between coach, extra legroom seating, and the Mint business class that’s offered only on select premium routes.

According to View From The Wing, the new domestic, first-class cabin will use standard first-class recliner seats, similar to first-class seats on American, Delta and United.

The rollout of “Mini Mint” is expected to be installed on Airbus A220s, A320s and A321s starting in 2026.

Aviation watchdog JonNYC noted that certification for the domestic first seats is underway, as JetBlue requires certification from the Federal Aviation Administration because it can physically install the seats and cabin.

JetBlue has selected the Collins Aerospace MiQ seat, the same one used in American’s domestic first class.

The new premium cabin will be introduced on all planes that don’t currently have Mint.

JonNYC shared that the prototype is expected to be installed in the first aircraft in June 2026, followed by installations for A320s in August 2026, with approximately 20 aircraft completed per month.

However, as View From The Wing pointed out, updating that many planes could ultimately take years. Getting the full non-Mint Airbus fleet complete with the first-class cabin will likely stretch “deep into 2027 or beyond.”

Once the planes have been modified with first class, the seat count on the fleet of jets will be altered.

According to One Mile at a Time, JetBlue Airbus A220s, which currently have 140 seats total, will feature 143 seats, including eight first-class seats and 135 economy class seats. JetBlue Airbus A320s will feature 162 seats — the same amount they currently have — including 12 for first class and 150 for economy.

JetBlue Airbus A321ceos and JetBlue Airbus A321neos both currently have 200 seats. After the reconfiguration, the A321ceos will feature 198 seats, including 12 first-class seats and 186 economy-class seats, and the A321neos will feature 200 seats, including 12 first-class and 188 economy-class.

The plan is reportedly to start by redoing the older planes and working their way toward newer aircraft.

Other details have yet to be revealed, so it’s unclear what will be offered in the new premium cabin besides the new seats.