JetBlue to make luxury changes will please many passengers

One of the best not-so-hidden secrets to improving one’s airport experience is to get access to a lounge.

Instead of crowding around the gate, you can enjoy drinks and a buffet of food either through airline status or a high-earning credit card.

While the latter is Amex (AXP) Centurion lounges are the best known for this, airlines like Delta (DAL) American Airlines (AAL) and United (UAL) all have their own lounges for the most dedicated flyers.

Related: JetBlue just cut more flights to cities people want to go to

JetBlue Airways (JBLU) launched in 1998 by longtime airline investor David Neeleman, it is still often seen as one of the low-cost or “upstart” airlines that characteristically does not offer lounges.

That is about to change.

These cities will see the first new JetBlue lounges

Last week, JetBlue said it would open its first airport lounges. The first will open at John F. Kennedy International Airport Terminal 5 in late 2025, while the second will come to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS) Terminal C shortly after.

More trips:

• A new travel term is taking over the internet (and reaching airlines and hotels)
• The 10 Best Airline Stocks to Buy Now
• Airlines are seeing a new type of traveler at the front of the plane

Each will be what the airline classifies as “a relaxed haven for play, work and relaxation.” While JetBlue hasn’t released specific details yet, this usually means larger seats with outlets, a full bar and food options, as well as some fun details like a piano with rotating live players or showers and sometimes even dining options. spa.

Related: Get the best cruise tips, deals and ship news from our expert cruiser

“Salons have become an essential offer”

“Customers have been asking for a JetBlue lounge for years, and we can’t wait to unveil ours in New York and Boston,” said JetBlue President Marty St. George, in a statement.

“Lounges have become an essential offering for the growing number of customers seeking premium experiences, and JetBlue lounges will further enhance the value of our TrueBlue loyalty program as we expand our portfolio of JetBlue credit cards.”

The lounges will only be available to customers with the highest Mosaic 4 loyalty program status and those traveling on transatlantic flights in JetBlue’s Mint business class. Access can also be gained by holders of a new credit card that JetBlue is launching with Barclays. It will soon announce the details of how to apply.

“Understanding that airport lounges have grown in popularity, leading to overcrowding and long lines at other airlines’ lounges, access to JetBlue’s lounges will be reserved primarily for its most loyal customers and premium credit card holders ,” says the airline.

Airlines focus on top customers

The latter refers to the fact that more people are flying and airlines have had to take unpopular measures, such as increasing the requirements to gain access to their lounges.

In September 2023, Delta said it would only offer access to SkyClub lounges to Delta SkyMiles Reserve and American Express holders. (AXP) Platinum credit cards that have spent at least $75,000 in a calendar year. The airline also limited the number of annual visits to 10 for the former and six for the latter.

Related: State Department issues warning for unexpected European country

Previously, a Delta flyer only had to hold credit cards, which have hundreds of dollars in annual fees.

After an outcry from customers, Delta Chief Executive Ed Bastian pushed back and said the airline “probably went too far” in instituting the changes. The updated requirements limiting access were still promoted, although the number of visits was increased.