There are lots of shiny new products coming to air travel in 2026. Airlines took the wraps off two of them last week.
American Airlines showed off its brand-new, premium-heavy Airbus A321XLR at a splashy unveiling in New York. The plane is a single-aisle “narrow-body,” but it features American’s new cabin interior and is configured with a bevy of lie-flat suites and a true international-style premium economy cabin.
American will be the first U.S. airline to fly Airbus’ XLR variant of the A321, launching it on high-profile domestic routes before expanding it later in 2026 to international service. More could come, with the carrier’s network chief saying it could pave the way for a number of “sexy” new routes across the Atlantic.
JetBlue was the other headliner last week, offering a sneak peek of its first-ever lounge. Called “BlueHouse,” the space at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) will welcome passengers for the first time tomorrow. Inside, they’ll find a chic space spanning two levels that’s meant to evoke the best of New York City.
But, in true New York style, the entry list will be an exclusive one. JetBlue says it’s determined not to let its BlueHouse suffer the same overcrowding scourge that’s diminished the experience at other lounges. So, for now, that means BlueHouse will open with stringent entry rules.
I’ll close with United Airlines, which rolled out its elite status requirements for 2026. Status thresholds won’t change, but there are some other changes down the line that MileagePlus members will want to keep an eye on.
I’ll leave it there for now. Wishing everyone a great Christmas, and we’ll check in again right before New Year’s.
Until then …
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