JetBlue to Launch Airport Lounges in New York and Boston in Bid for High-Spenders

• JetBlue intends to launch its first airport lounges after more than two decades of operation.
• Starting late next year, JetBlue's hubs in New York will see the launch of the first clubs, with Boston following suit.
• JetBlue is also launching a "premium" credit card.

In more than two decades of flying, the low-cost airline will open its first airport lounges, marking a significant change as it targets high-spending travelers.

JetBlue announced that the lounges will open at their hubs in New York and Boston late next year.

The airline is also planning to introduce a new "premium" credit card with its partner, Barclays, following the successful model of companies such as American Express and Visa, which have generated billions through profitable credit card partnerships.

Those with the soon-to-be-announced premium credit card, JetBlue Mint business class travelers, and high-level frequent flyer status holders will have access to lounges, the company stated.

JetBlue's 8,000-square-foot lounge in Terminal 5 of New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport and an 11,000-square-foot space in Boston Logan International Airport's Terminal C are both set to open late next year and shortly after, respectively.

JetBlue has been cutting costs and striving for profitability, including by delaying the delivery of new Airbus jetliners. The airline has reduced numerous routes this year and has been seeking ways to optimize the use of its aircraft, which are equipped with its Mint cabin, featuring lie-flat seats, premium dining, and other amenities.

Travelers on other Mint routes, such as transcontinental flights, will not be immediately allowed entry to the lounges, according to Jayne O'Brien, JetBlue's head of marketing and customer support.

She stated that JetBlue prioritizes customer satisfaction and will not disappoint if they cannot access the lounges due to overcrowding.

Members of JetBlue's top-tier loyalty program and holders of the new premium card will have the ability to grant free access to the lounge for one guest.

JetBlue is reportedly planning to launch a mini Mint cabin on some aircraft, and O'Brien refused to comment on the rumors.

Delta has opened its first Delta One lounge at JFK Airport, exclusively for customers in its highest-level cabin and certain elite members of its SkyMiles program. Other airlines have been updating their airport lounges to attract more high-spenders and accommodate larger crowds.

Top first- and business-class cabins on American and United airlines feature dedicated lounges for travelers.

In addition to airlines, credit card companies like and have established airport lounges in various cities to attract customers.

Other airlines, besides JetBlue, are also considering offering more benefits for higher-priced tickets.

Southwest plans to increase revenue by offering seats with extra legroom, marking a significant change in its more than five decades of flying. The airline will provide more details about its strategy at an investor day next week. Additionally, Southwest has already introduced bundles that include seats with more space and earlier boarding.