JetBlue has just launched its new Mint business class product, which will be launched on the Airbus A321LR when the airline launches transatlantic flights. Not only that, but the airline is really introducing two different new Mint experiences here!
The new JetBlue Mint Suite
In 2014, JetBlue innovated in the narrow body business class with the launch of the Mint, with flat beds in all seats and doors in some seats. Now JetBlue is innovating again in the narrow-bodied business class, with the introduction of the JetBlue Mint Suite, with direct access to the aisle and doors on all seats.
JetBlue’s A321LRs, used for transatlantic flights, will have a total of 24 herringbone business class suites. JetBlue chose the Thompson Aero VantageSolo seat, which is not a big surprise. JetBlue’s current Mint product is also from Thompson Aero, so this is a natural evolution and I think it is the product that many of us expected.
The new JetBlue Mint Suite will feature the following amenities:
- 17 ″ Thales AVANT backrest screen, plus free, fast Wi-Fi
- Wireless charging capabilities
- An integrated phone edge for multitasking
- Easy-to-reach strength in the seat
- Laptop, shoe and bag storage
- A proprietary foam from Tuft & Needle and a breathable cover “to create a comfortable and fresh sleep experience, unlike anything in the sky”
It is also noted that the product has some new residential-inspired design touches throughout the cabin, including:
- Residential textures such as flannel-covered dividers, concrete lampshades, wooden table patterns and vegan leather-covered seats and headrests
- Custom suite gradient panels and door curtains patterned with the exclusive mint leaf
- Ambient lighting and a blue floor arch that helps direct the customer’s boarding flow
The new JetBlue Mint Suite
The new JetBlue Mint Suite
The new JetBlue Mint Suite
The new JetBlue Mint Studio
JetBlue is not only introducing the new Mint Suite, but also Mint Studio. Essentially, the first row of the plane in this configuration has some extra space, so the airline will market it as a separate product.
Each plane will have two Mint Studios on the first row, providing some additional features, including:
- A 22 ″ Thales AVANT seatback screen
- An extra side table for increased productivity
- A guest seat that can accommodate an additional Mint customer while flying at cruise altitude
JetBlue says Mint Studio will:
- Get more space on a premium experience from any U.S. airline
- The largest flat bed of any US operator
We know that JetBlue will charge a premium for Mint Studio compared to Mint Suite, although we do not yet know how much premium the airline will charge.
The new JetBlue Mint Studio
The new JetBlue Mint Studio
The new JetBlue Mint Studio
When will the new JetBlue Mint Suite & Studio be available?
There are some interesting updates here:
- The new JetBlue Mint experience will debut on the A321LRs, flying to London this summer; this is a worthwhile update because previously it looked like JetBlue could only start transatlantic flights in late 2021
- The new JetBlue Mint will also be progressively available on domestic flights with a special 16-seat layout, as some A321neos for future delivery will feature the new Mint Suite and Mint Studio; this is an interesting update because we did not previously know if this product would only be available on transatlantic flights or not
My take on the new JetBlue Mint experience
Overall, I am ridiculously excited about the launch of JetBlue transatlantic flights. The airline disrupted the transcon premium transport market in 2014 and I believe it will do the same on transatlantic flights, with reasonably priced premium fares and an industry-leading experience.
What do I think of the new JetBlue Mint Suite and Mint Studio as such? I’ve written about the VantageSolo seat in the past and my feelings haven’t changed. I’m divided:
- For a narrow body, this looks like a great product, having direct access to the corridor and doors
- At the same time, objectively, a herringbone seat where you are facing the corridor and away from the window is a step backwards with regard to the evolution of premium cabin products
- I think JetBlue is doing a phenomenal job with the finishes and attention to product details
- It is innovative for JetBlue to present Mint Studio and create a special experience around it
- The new cabin (in the video below) looks ridiculously elegant, with so many premium seats on a narrow plane
So yes, although I generally don’t love herringbone seats, I am very excited about the new JetBlue Mint, the airline will do great things on transatlantic flights and the product seems to be in line with what I expected.
Result
JetBlue is presenting a new Mint experience starting this year. The new Mint product will initially debut on London flights in the summer of 2021 with a 24-seat layout and then make its debut between New York and Los Angeles in late 2021.
In addition to having a new JetBlue Mint Suite, JetBlue is also introducing Mint Studio, which will offer extra space and amenities.
What do you think of the new JetBlue Mint Suite and Mint Studio?