Watch us fly JetBlue 2 different ways: Mint Studio vs. economy
With JetBlue about to launch flights to London from New York-JFK for the first time ever on Aug. 11, I was very eager to get on board to see if this airline lived up to all the hype.
Related: A business-class boost: Reviewing JetBlue's new Mint Suite that will fly to London
While JetBlue will fly its new Airbus A321LR aircraft to London, it's already flying its almost-as-new Airbus A321LD planes between New York-JFK and Los Angeles (LAX). This is important because both aircraft feature the new and exciting Mint Suite and Mint Studio products, as well as a refreshed economy cabin.
I was determined to test out and show everyone what they can expect when JetBlue finally arrives in the U.K. So, along with TPG credit cards writer Stella Shon, we hopped on board this transcontinental U.S. flight to experience JetBlue's new product.
Watch the full video of our experience here:
Mint Studio (business class) — Nicky Kelvin
We paid: $1,556.40
As part of the total ticket price, we paid $199 to select one of two seats in the front row of the plane, known as "Mint Studio" seats. The rest of the business-class cabin on this aircraft features "Mint Suites," which are slightly smaller with no buddy seat but still have a door.
I thought the new suite was fantastic, especially for a narrow-body jet. The Mint Studio felt comfortable and spacious, which is helped by the generous 1-1 configuration. The buddy seat was a great addition that allows you to dine or meet with others in the air. The food offered was both comprehensive and delicious, and there are great amenities on offer for a domestic flight.
On the downside, the overall ticket price for a flight from New York City to Los Angeles was a little steep. While the door on the suite is a nice gimmick and adds privacy, to an extent, the door is still quite low and doesn't offer true privacy even when closed. Finally, for a great night's sleep on overnight flights, you may miss a mattress pad and a more comprehensive bedding selection.
Core (economy) — Stella Shon
We paid: $267.40
We booked a Blue fare, which includes seat assignment and a carry-on bag.
Shon loved the brand-new plane. There were many positives to mention especially for a relatively cheap economy ticket, including fast and free Wi-Fi, an updated, user-friendly inflight entertainment screen with lots of shows and movies to choose from, a comfortable seat with headrest adjustment and plenty of legroom.
It wasn't all rosy, though. The return to the normal boarding process (instead of back to front) made boarding a somewhat chaotic experience, especially for a full flight. There were no sandwiches or salads to purchase yet, just snack boxes which can be rough for a nearly six-hour transcontinental flight. Finally, because the flight was completely full, it was hard to be totally comfortable, though this is not necessarily JetBlue's fault and signals that, indeed, travel is back.
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