JetBlue overhauls fare options, from basic first to flexible economy. Here's what to know

JetBlue Airways is overhauling its fare options as it gears up to launch its domestic first-class seats and, yes, there is a restrictive basic option at the front of the plane.

Travelers flying on JetBlue will start by choosing how much legroom they want and how premium they want their seat to be.

The airline will have an economy section, or "Main," a section with extra legroom seats that it calls "Even More," which also come with earlier boarding and priority airport screening, and a domestic first class that it's named BlueFirst, which it's slated to debut later this year. From there, customers will have the following options for each class:

With the new groupings, JetBlue is getting rid of the "Core" fares it sells now and putting economy class options in a "Main" category.

JetBlue's lie-flat Mint business class, which is used on longer-haul flights like cross-country trips and flights to European destinations including Paris, London and Milan, will only have the Standard and Flex option.

JetBlue stopped short of offering a basic lie-flat business option that competitors United Airlines and Delta Air Lines launched this year. Those airlines have made similar moves to break up premium economy by offering different fares even at the front of the cabin. United this month said that on some aircraft it will charge a premium for a blocked middle seat.

JetBlue hasn't yet provided a date for its BlueFirst seats, but the changes come as airlines are racing to capitalize on high demand for pricier seats from consumers seeking extra comfort and perks on board. JetBlue is set to report results on Tuesday.

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