JetBlue Adding New “Core Preferred” Fees for Economy Seat Selection

JetBlue is a cost-conscious airline that has built its reputation by delivering top-level amenities for mid-level prices, but this strategy has posed serious challenges to its bottom line.

The war between the legacy carriers and the increasingly minimalist low-cost airlines rages on with JetBlue stuck in the middle.

To that end, JetBlue has announced new changes to its seat assignments — and while we’re not thrilled to see them coming, they’re more than a little overdue. Let’s take a look at what’s changed and the costs you can expect to see going forward.

JetBlue Adds Preferred Economy Seat Fees

An overdue adjustment to JetBlue standards is a savvy business move but a letdown for travelers.

The airline has altered its approach to its pricing system, which means you’ll be paying new costs based on tiered economy pricing for cabin location.

While Even More Space seats have always incurred a higher fee, new “Core Preferred” seats are now going to cost travelers more, too.

Yeah, we’re paying more for the same seats. While this would normally elicit a groan of dismay, it’s important to appreciate the adaptability in this otherwise negative adjustment.

Jetblue is committed to maintaining amenities that have become a thing of yesteryear: the most legroom in coach, free Wi-Fi, and free seatback entertainment for all passengers. While the company has attempted to command higher prices for these, a race to the bottom in airfare pricing makes this difficult.

You’ll find the added tier under the name “Core (preferred)” when choosing a seat during the booking process. This usually will add about $20 to your final ticket price, depending on where you’re flying:

As you can see, middle seats are still going to cost you less than superior options at the window or aisle, but the fact that you have to pay for a seat in the middle is less than desirable.

JetBlue’s family seating policy still applies even with the introduction of “Core Preferred” seats. Passengers 13 years and younger will be assigned a seat next to an adult on the same reservation — even if they purchased basic economy tickets.

Final Thoughts

While we don’t love added cost, this decision ensures JetBlue still maintains a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving airline industry. These strategic adjustments secure a more sustainable future for the airline so we can continue to soak up all our favorite perks for years to come.