JetBlue will offer cheaper, no-frills fares beginning next year

JetBlue is following the lead of larger rival airlines by offering a stripped-down ticket option with fewer perks than regular economy fares.  

The New York-based carrier announced its plan to unveil the new no-frills fares beginning next year in a letter to employees Friday. 

‘Customers who opt for this fare will agree to some limits, which might include things like boarding order, seating and change/cancellation flexibility, but we will not make them feel like second-class citizens,’ JetBlue COO and president Joanna Geraghty wrote in the announcement on the company’s blog Friday.

While the company has yet to confirm what options will be stripped back under the new fares, Geraghty said free on-board WiFi, refreshments and a carry-on bag will still be included. 

Airline profits have taken a hit amidst climbing fuel prices, leading carriers to work out creative ways to increase revenue. 

Many big airlines including Delta, United and American have begun offering basic economy fares for customers who are willing to give up ticket flexibility, boarding convenience and seat selection in exchange for tickets that typically hover around $50 cheaper.

The fares were an answer to the growing popularity of discount airlines such as Spirit, which offer options a la carte. 

‘At JetBlue, we never liked the “no frills” approach,’ Geraghty wrote, ‘but with these competitors now offering basic economy on many routes we fly, customer behavior suggests our success is at risk if we do not disrupt this market by lowering fares without sacrificing the experience.’ 

Last month JetBlue raised its checked bag fee from $25 to $30 and also hiked its ticket change fees.