JetBlue announced today that it will soon offer its own version of a basic economy fare. The airline says that its “success is at risk” if it doesn’t match the discounted, no-extras tickets being sold by larger rivals.
The change will be part of a broader shakeup of JetBlue’s fare system that will debut next year, President Joanna Geraghty told airline employees in a message Friday. JetBlue’s version will retain services like free WiFi and a carry-on bag and personal item at no charge, she said.
The new lowest-price option will compete with basic economy fares offered by larger rivals and deep discounters including Spirit Airlines. Those tickets, which generally don’t allow changes, seat selection or early boarding, were created to appeal to passengers willing to sacrifice some services for cheaper tickets.
There’s no details details yet on the exact features or a brand name for the new basic economy ticket. Customers buying the lowest fare “will agree to some limits, which might include boarding order, seating and change/cancellation flexibility,”.
